iWitness

iWitness
by Joshua Sobol
Adapted to English by Barry Edelstein and Joshua Sobol
Directed by Barry Edelstein

Wednesday, April 12, 2006 - 8 pm
Mark Taper Forum, Los Angeles, CA

A powerful play that makes strong points about war, agreeing (or disagreeing) with your government, and staying true to your beliefs whatever the cost. "iWitness" is based on the true-life story of Franz Jägerstätter, an Austrian man who in 1943 was executed for refusing to serve in the Nazi army. The play takes place while he is in prison, with scenes from various people trying to convince him to just join the army to save his life and return to the family that needs him. Despite its flaws - it was too long, the main character is made a one-sided saint, and there wasn't much by way of dramatic flow - the show thrives on its use of theatricality and incredibly strong acting. Scenes are staged in such a way that you feel the emotion or are shocked by the contrasting images. And the acting: all the performers were incredibly strong, but clearly Gareth Saxe's performance as Franz stands out. Not only is he on stage nearly the entire time, but he brings depth, pathos and color to his role (not that the script would allow you to not sympathize with his character).

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