[Reviewed at Greenwich Street Theater] Gregory Murphy's writing is both expressive and delightfully clever (I found myself writing down lines verbatim, just because they were so good) and it is amply supported by excellent direction and an absolutely first-rate cast. The actors clearly understand both the strictures of Victorian society and the humanity and passion that are still present beneath the stuffy facades. The sympathetic characters of Effie and Millais are gracefully played, while the dislikable and self-satisfied Ruskin family are imbued with life and even a touch of humor. Effie's feminist friend is full of vinegar, and even the manservant becomes a fully-rounded character. The production itself is handsome without being showy, with simply-draped backgrounds, well-dressed sets, and gorgeous (and historically accurate) costumes. The Countess is a wonderful piece of theater: intelligent, thought provoking and even amusing. It is powerful stuff, with strong emotions of all sorts coming to the fore, but it never falls into melodrama. The production does the piece justice and deserves a long run. Whether or not it gets it, keep an eye out for everyone involved; they will be seen again.
This is a play with it all: truly eloquent and witty dialogue, scandalous behavior, and famous people. Based on real events in Victorian Britain, The Countess depicts the unhealthy marriage of John and Effie Ruskin, and the scandal that ensues when the true nature of their marriage is revealed. Ruskin (noted art critic and writer) is so destructively critical of his wife, she is sure she is at fault -- perhaps even insane. It is only through her strong will that she has managed to keep any sense of self worth, and the struggle has clearly taken its toll. Ruskin invites his protegee, painter John Everett Millais, to join the pair on an extended visit to Scotland, and Effie's tight control begins to slip. She and Millais are attracted to each other but feel they cannot in good conscience act on their desires. When Effie says his name, the passion in a quiet whisper is palpable, and a single kiss (after the situation between the Ruskins has deteriorated further) is sexier than many a nude scene.
