The Court Theatre in Chicago brings a fresh perspective to the Weimar Republic’s turbulent era with the first stage adaptation of Jason Lutes’ graphic novel, Berlin. Running from April 19 to May 11, this world premiere showcases playwright Mickle Maher’s script, directed by Charles Newell, who has a rich history with the theatre. The graphic novel spans two decades, chronicling the lives of a diverse group of characters amid the rise of fascism in Germany from 1928 to 1933.
Lutes’ Berlin intricately unfolds the everyday struggles of artists, journalists, and workers, interwoven with historical context. His evocative black-and-white illustrations capture the chaos and moral dilemmas of a society on the brink of disaster, while characters—mostly fictional—grapple with the political upheaval around them.
Introducing this adaptation, Newell recalled how he came across Berlin, guided there by Court’s executive director. Maher asserts that the dramatic weight of this historical period invites countless interpretations, highlighting its significance to contemporary audiences. Both creators agree that while the play resonates powerfully, its relevance will vary according to each viewer’s personal lens.
Maher’s adaptation narrows down to twelve pivotal characters portrayed by members of the cast, who also assume additional roles, fostering a complex narrative structure. The production favours a fluid staging approach that evokes, rather than precisely replicates, the essence of Berlin’s architecture, integrating symbols of movement and change to create a dynamic environment.
As Lutes reflected on Berlin, he shared his foreboding feelings towards the reawakening of nationalism globally, noting parallels between contemporary America and pre-Nazi Germany and presenting a cautionary narrative. With history ever-repeating, the urgency for stories like Berlin is clearer than ever, offering vital lessons for today’s world.
Chicago’s Court Theatre premieres the stage adaptation of Jason Lutes’ graphic novel *Berlin*, exploring the Weimar Republic’s collapse and the rise of fascism through 12 principal characters. The adaptation, running from April 19 to May 11, focuses on fluid storytelling and the dynamic imagery of Berlin. It uncovers the relevance of this historical narrative amidst today’s political climate, showcasing the importance of diverse stories in understanding contemporary society.
The Court Theatre’s adaptation of *Berlin* presents a crucial exploration of the Weimar Republic era, drawing parallels with present-day political turmoil. By focusing on the individual journeys within a historically rich narrative, the production invites audiences to reflect on their realities through the lens of the past. The urgent relevance of this story echoes the necessity of sharing diverse perspectives to navigate contemporary issues effectively.
Original Source: playbill.com
