THE HANGOVER REPORT – The practically perfect revival of Miles Malleson’s CONFLICT just may well be the Mint’s crowning achievement

Jeremy Beck, Jessie Shelton, and Henry Clarke in Miles Malleson's "Conflict" at Theatre Row, courtesy of the Mint Theater Company.

Jeremy Beck, Jessie Shelton, and Henry Clarke in Miles Malleson’s “Conflict” at Theatre Row, courtesy of the Mint Theater Company.

Mr. Malleson’s 1925 play – which, thanks to the Mint, is enjoying its long-last New York debut – takes place in London between the two world wars and depicts the lead up to an unlikely but heated Parliamentary election between the conservative and liberal candidates. Caught in the middle of these two politicians, however, is a woman on her own distinctive journey of self-realization and empowerment. The play itself may not be a masterpiece. Far from it, actually. The writing, particularly in the by-the-books first act, is predictable and formulaic.

However, as sensitively and handsomely directed by Jenn Thompson (the well-appointed set is by John McDermott), the production itself confidently rises to the occasion to dispel any misgivings about Mr. Malleson’s arguably creaky text. Indeed, the acting in this pristine Conflict is as nuanced and moving as any that can now be found on the boards of New York. The great care, maturity, and patience with which this cast takes on their respective characters is truly uncanny, particularly the quartet of Jessie Shelton (the woman at the center of it all), Graeme Malcolm (her father, conservatively-inclined), Jeremy Beck (the liberal candidate), and Henry Clarke (the conservative candidate). In our age of political turmoil, it’s refreshing to see a piece that celebrates politics and democracy at their purest, most ideal manifestations.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

 

CONFLICT
Off-Broadway, Play
Mint Theater Company at Theatre Row
2 hours, 15 minutes (with one intermission)
Through July 21

Categories: Off-Broadway, Theater

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