It is 1884 in the back streets of London. John Merrick, seriously deformed at birth, can only subsist as a sideshow freak at the lowest level. He is discovered by noted surgeon Fredrick Treves who brings him to his hospital as an object of anatomical study. He finds Merrick, despite his deformities, has a soul and an indomitable spirit. This is recorded history.
“The Elephant Man” at the Hippodrome State Theatre in Gainesville takes a different look. At the rise, a man in a loin cloth appears whole, but then twists and turns to make his body take on convoluted positions where one arm hangs useless and walking is undertaken only with great effort. He (Bryan Mercer) is our Merrick and his gross malformations must rest within our own minds.
As Merrick finds sanctuary in the London Hospital where Dr. Treves (Joe Ditmyer) practices, he achieves celebrity status. The London Times accepts donations to cover Merrick’s expenses and the hospital becomes his residence. A parade of royalty and wealthy patriarchs make their way to see him.
Mercer makes us believe in Merrick. He is consistent in his in his portrayal. Ditmyer takes the brunt of the word count and does it very professionally. Mark Chambers is outstanding in the dual roles of Gomm and Ross with the aid of some quick costume changes. The stately Nichole Hamilton along with Niall McGinty, Drew Michele, and Logan Wolfe fill the remaining roles of this all Equity cast.
“Elephant Man” is well worth the 75 minute drive to Gainesville from The Villages. The show runs through May 1. Popular restaurants nearby in this friendly college town make for a pleasant experience on any Sunday, 2 p.m. matinee. Check out details for their ‘talk-back’ sessions on the Hippodrome Web Site www.thehipp.org.
Jack Petro reviews local theater for Villages-News.com
