April 2012: Chicago

The Iceman Cometh

I didn't know exactly what I was in for when I grabbed one of the few remaining tickets to the Goodman Theatre's new production of The Iceman Cometh starring Nathan Lane and Brian Dennehy. I'm not that familiar with the works of Eugene O'Neill and the only other play of his I had seen was the Goodman's production of Long Day's Journey Into Night (albeit in Chicago before Broadway and without Vanessa Redgrave). After getting over my initial disappointment that Brian Dennehy was out sick, I was at the very least intrigued, but at times completely mesmerized by the play and the production.

This play is long!!! And, this particular prodution appears to be unabridged, logging in at 4 hours and 50 minutes with three 15 minute intermissions, which are a must not only for the thankful audience, but also to allow for the set changes. The design of the show is outstanding!!! The set design is based upon the Goodman/Robert Falls production from the 90s with each of the four acts having its own unique set. Most of them are minimalistic and claustrophobic, but the bar setting for the third act is appropriately fully realized. The lighting design (by Natasha Katz) is brilliant! The first act starts in near darkness with the denizens of Harry's Bar slowly illuminated as each one stirs to life.

The role of Hickey is a mammoth one, even though he doesn't make his first entrance until well over an hour into the show. Without a doubt, that first Hickey-less hour features one of the best acting ensembles I've ever seen, including the excellent, but uncredited-in-the-progam understudy for Dennehy. Kudos to all of the players! As Hickey, Nathan Lane stands out in more ways than one. I have only seen him in comedic roles, which is what he is known for and excels at. The casting is jarring at times, but it works well within the role. The character is appropriately likable and out of place compared to the players. The most surprising thing though is how well Lane acquits himself in the last act's big dramatic monologue. He's absolutely thrilling to watch as he plumbs the depths of the meaty role. Unforgettable!