It may feel strange to use words like “incest” and “heart on a dagger” to describe anything that’s actually good.
However, there are few other ways to explain “’Tis Pity She’s a Whore,” a CU play that opened Wednesday night in the Loft Theatre.
The play is often classified as one of the most controversial works in classic literature, and it’s easy to understand why. Written in the 17th century by John Ford, the tragic story follows a brother and sister who fall in love despite living in religious Italian society. From angry suitors and bloody deaths to the couple’s moments of intimacy, the show certainly delves fearlessly into a taboo topic.
Because the issues really speak for themselves, the set was expectedly very minimalistic. Upon entering the Loft Theatre, there was very little for the eye to hold onto. Apart from a few platforms, some ragged sheets hanging as a backdrop and an ominous dagger on the floor, the scene was mostly empty.
Upon looking closer, however, little splatters of colored paint on the entirely black surfaces made it clear that bloodshed was on its way.
In order to tackle such sensitive material, the show required two leads that were not only talented, but also extremely sympathetic. Playing the lovesick Giovanni, RJ Conley brought a sincerity and intelligence to the character that had the audience wondering whether it was OK to root for the incestuous brother.
Likewise, as Annabella, Katie Cross was sweet and instantly likeable. She showed an important contrast in her character, fully falling into moments with Giovanni while displaying strength against her suitors, to win viewers over to her plight.
One of the show’s most fascinating features was its choice to hint at another slight taboo. In an unusual casting choice, female actresses played a majority of roles meant for men. Though confusing and distracting at first, extreme talent proved that it doesn’t matter which gender plays what.
Kristy Gray and Brittany Lynn Wolff were two of the most captivating cast members, each playing at least one main male character. Gray constantly switched between playing Soranzo, a serious suitor who eventually weds Annabella, and Putana, Anabella’s ditzy feminine caretaker.
Wolff had hilarious comedic timing playing an old man, while she was the image of poise and command as Soranzo’s right hand servant. She confidently performed a sword fight with fellow cast member Anthony Dostert.
Swords were wielded left and right throughout the performance. With well-choreographed stage fighting and an abundance of corn-syrupy blood, special effects of the show were especially engaging to watch.
The play got off to a slow start, partly due to an acclimation to old English dialogue. However, with dynamic talent and deliberate movements, it became easy to fall into the rhythm of the speech and stay connected.
Josh Newton had no trouble with being animated, both physically and verbally. Playing the foolish and vain Bergetto, Newton was committed to guffawing and romping around the stage like a peacock with his hand flung in the air. Though at first it was unclear how to react to such a character, it soon became a lighthearted moment every time he sauntered on stage.
Dealing with a controversial topic is difficult no matter what the current time period is. CU actors in “’Tis Pity She’s a Whore,” managed to find a balance between handling the taboo and creating distinctive entertainment.
“’Tis Pity She’s a Whore” will be playing from March 9 to March 13. Tickets can be purchased at the box office located in the University Theatre Building. Student tickets are $8.
Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Stephanie Riesco at Stephanie.riesco@colorado.edu.
