Go Now and See "Freed" at 59E59

Freed is that rare play that entertains, educates and inspires, all at the same time and does it all elegantly. It is a deceptively simple story, the tale of the first free black man, John Newton Templeton, to attend college in the mid-west. John Newton Templeton was born a slave and set free at a young age, after his master passed away. Robert Wilson, a teacher and Reverend at Ohio University offers John the chance to complete a college education. Hung on this framework are the stories of John’s growth, the story of Rev. Wilson, dreams of Liberia for John and, most surprising, Mrs. Wilson’s relationship with John.
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This play could easily have fallen into a lecture on Liberia or the rights of Free Black men in the slave era or any other didactic message about the 1820s. Instead, Freed uses the hope and aspirations of John to pull the audience into a narrative of the times. The Reverend Wilson befriends the young man and sponsors him at the University. When John is not able to live on campus, he stays with the Reverend and his wife. The wife provides a touchstone to the reality outside of the university walls.
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Christopher McCann as Reverend Wilson does a very good job of bringing the conflicted man to life. His teacher is well meaning, but can be condescending when trying to be supportive. His role eschews the easy generalizations of the time. But it is Sheldon Best as John Newton Templeton and Emma O’Donnell as the wife who steal this show. Miss O’Donnell burns up the stage with barely disguised anger towards the life she has. John is tangential target of her disappointment with the world and her place in it. But her anger doesn’t turn into self-pity and bitterness, it turns into a force of unflinching truth, bringing insights to the to the young man.
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In John Newton Templeton, Sheldon Best has found a character to give new voice of the freed black American. This man is smart and ambitious, albeit limited by his time and circumstances. He finds the antagonism of Mrs. Wilson uncomfortable and confusing.
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Without overly explaining the emotional journey of the show, it moved in unexpected ways and dealt with issues new to the audience. It avoided the banal and obvious arguments and instead forced both the characters and the audience to reevaluate preconceptions. Credit has to go to Charles Smith for bringing new stories out in Freed.
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Joe Brancato directed this show with a wonderfully light hand, trusting his actors and the audience to make the journey together. The very simple and organic set is enhanced by a great lighting design, scenic design done by Joseph J. Egan and lighting designer by Martin E. Vreeland. The lighting focuses the play on the individuals and just as the costumes set the era well, without being too overbearing.
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By all means see this show. Go with any preconceptions you have because this show and cast will blow past them.
(tickets)
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FREED
The 59E59 Theatres, June 11 – July 3, 2010
Cast list: Sheldon Best, Christopher McCann, Emma O’Donnell
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Rating: SEE IT!
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What works: A surprising stories told by amazing actors.
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What doesn't work: A very short trip to the meodramtic side
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What you get to brag about to your friends: You will be talking about this amazing show that has a very limited run. Your friends will be very jealous if they miss it!