All theater is political. Theater has always reflected our society, exposing the truths we are trying to hide. Harley Granville-Barker’s Waste (adapted and directed by Carey Perloff) is significantly different in that it is overtly political instead of attempting to hide serious matters under a pretty metaphor.
Because humans run governments, overtly political shows always remain relevant. Waste’s examination of a self-made politician who has no compassion, detests women’s very existence (except in the bedroom) and somehow makes himself the victim after ruining a woman’s life might as well be set in 2025 Washington, D.C., and not 1907 London.
Centered on the separation of church and state, a woman’s right to choose and how much politics should dictate medicine, there is no questioning this show’s contemporary relevance. It is that relevancy that makes this show hard to watch. There is nothing in this production that we do not see being played out today. It neither allows us to escape our current world nor presents any sort of pathway or hope of a path toward a better one.
Not to mention that the audience thought it was over multiple times before it actually ended.
Some outstanding acting is being done here. Jomar Tagatac, as Dr. Wedgecroft, is fantastic. His choices are nuanced, he’s grounded and truthful in his portrayal, and he has a solid charisma that balances scenes. Leontyne Mbele-Mbong (Frances Trebell) and Anna Takayo (Lucy Davenport) are underutilized, which is a shame. Finally, Anthony Fusco (Charles Cantelupe) realistically portrays a man deciding between his faith and his country.
The production values were striking. The avant-garde set by Arnel Sancianco evoked a deconstruction of aristocratic life, but the actors were inconsistent with their placement of pantomimed doors. Lights by Kate Boyd were gorgeous. But a different approach between the three final scenes would have helped the audience understand that more was coming.
With a little more editing of the ending, this adaptation could be powerful and provocative. However, in our current political climate, it is too close to reality for comedy and not visionary enough to show us anything other than having a soul in politics, which has always been a waste.
‘Waste’ runs Weds–Sun through March 2 at Marin Theatre, 397 Miller Ave., Mill Valley. Weds through Sat, 7:30pm; Sat & Sun, 2pm. $10-$85. 415.388.5208. marintheatre.org.
