A lesson in mental calisthenics meticulously directed by
Giovanna Sardelli weaves a tale beginning with an innocent
infringement that leads to an unexpected, violent finish.
A lesson in mental calisthenics meticulously directed by Giovanna Sardelli weaves a tale beginning with an innocent infringement that leads to an unexpected, violent finish.
Amazingly, young prolific playwright Rajiv Joseph (36), leads his audience into pathways and dead ends that keep the attention and keep the audience wondering what’s next. Joseph has been nominated for the Pulitzer for his Broadway debut, “Bengal Tiger at the Bengal Zoo” starring Robin Williams. He obviously knows how to hold interest.
“The North Pool” brings high school vice principal Dr. Danielson (Remi Sandri) and the bright, aloof, Syrian-born student Khadim Asmaan (Adam Poss) to a meeting at the end of spring break. The meeting is supposed to represent a cutting class citation, but as the encounter proceeds we find that Dr. Danielson has more on his mind than the minor violation.
A former student of the school, he is now the vice principal in what has been a frustrating journey. He had become obsessively dedicated after being passed over for the top job; that creates an almost neurotic desire to show he can keep things right at all costs. Khadim – a seemingly quiet, controlled student – is really more worldly than Danielson due to a privileged upbringing. They face off with Danielson digging into a sensitive situation both are a part of and live with guilt that neither wants to admit, while looking for forgiveness that neither feels he can achieve or deserves.
Joseph’s dialogue is crisp and clear, yet gets to the core of racism, violence, alarm and accusations. As the story unfolds, nothing is as it seems the moment before and the suspense subtlety builds. Both actors deliver a pristine performance.
“The North Pool” will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you wondering about the layers of life that emerge when we least expect it.
As usual, TheatreWorks provides first class theatre.
***
‘The North Pool’
Where: Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto
Through: April 3
Tickets: $24 – $67
Details: (650) 463-1960 or visit www.theatreworks.org.
