In Marina Carr’s play “Marble,” two married men, Art and Ben, engage in a revealing conversation over drinks. Art shares his dream of intimacy with Ben’s wife, Catherine, in a room full of marble. Interestingly, Ben’s wife also had a similar dream involving Art and marble. This intriguing premise sets the stage for the new show at Gift Theatre.
The play, originally premiered at Dublin’s Abbey Theatre in 2009, delves into the lives of two couples facing the breakdown of their marriages. Carr explores whether these dreams represent mere coincidence or a deeper, shared experience. She questions if these dreams are an unusual way of conveying their marital dissatisfaction.
“Marble” portrays the death of middle-aged marriages. The husbands, oblivious to their wives’ evolving identities, struggle to cope. The play compares to works by Harold Pinter and Edward Albee, focusing on emotional intimacy and suburban life’s quiet desperation. Carr highlights the female characters, offering powerful roles for actresses Brittany Burch and Cyd Blakewell. Burch plays Catherine, a woman filled with existential dread, while Blakewell’s Anne drowns her feelings in wine.
The play poses philosophical questions about marriage and desire. Catherine’s yearning for more echoes characters like Nora from “A Doll’s House” and even an Irish “Medea.” Carr’s work shares intense moments reminiscent of Sarah Kane’s plays. “Marble” examines how spousal resentment can morph into hatred, extinguishing desire and hope over time.
The production, directed by Kay Martinovich, is staged at the Copernicus Center in Jefferson Park. While the design capitalizes on the space, some tension and detail could improve the production, such as better sound effects. Despite this, the acting quality is strong, showcasing complex performances typical of Chicago’s Gift Theatre.
“Marble” offers a searing look at marital challenges, presented with poetic flair and a touch of humor. Theatre enthusiasts will appreciate the nuanced performances and profound themes. Watching it with a partner or reflecting on the single life, the play leaves a lasting impression.
Show Details:
“Marble” at Gift Theatre
Location: Copernicus Center, 5216 W. Lawrence Ave.
Running Time: 2 hours
Tickets: $45-50
Contact: 773-283-7071 or thegifttheatre.org