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Dave’s 2’s review: ‘Ben Butler’ at Florida Repertory Theatre
Dave’s 2’s review: ‘Ben Butler’ at Florida Repertory Theatre
FORT MYERS, Fla. —
“Ben Butler” is far from a dry, boring history lesson about the civil war, instead it is anything but and it even tastefully uses comedy, something you wouldn’t expect with the topic that is playing out on the stage of Florida Repertory Theatre in Fort Myers.
Playwright Richard Strand doesn’t use guns firing bullets but rather actors firing sarcasm and zingers that often hit the audience with provoking thoughts and at times laughter.
I didn’t know what to expect as I headed into the theatre, because the civil war is a sensitive topic and I couldn’t imagine how comedy would be used to tackle the subject, but it’s delivered at all the right times. Despite the fact the civil war occurred 150+ years ago I couldn’t help but think how relevant the issue of freedoms is still today.
“Ben Butler” is part comedy, part historical drama, and part biography, which deals with real events and people.
Benjamin Franklin Butler was a major general of the Union Army, as well as a politician and lawyer. the role is played brilliantly by Actor Michael Sean McGuinness.
The show takes place at the beginning of the civil war when Butler has just assumed his general position and while he is sympathetic toward slaves, word of his sympathy quickly spreads and they begin showing up at his fort just as Virginia secedes from the Union.
Lt. Kelly is played by actor Brandon Haagenson a young career military man who has little to no contact with the black community until he warns Butler that a “Negro slave” is demanding to see him.
That escaped slave is Shepard Mallory played by Actor Brandon J. Pierce who is captivating in his role and commands the stage with passion when he is performing as he demands to join the north and fight against slavery in the south.
However, Butler reminds him that is not possible under the constitution but Mallory is convinced Butler can find a way to protect him as the southern army members are to come and retrieve their “property” as Mallory is referred to.
I don’t like to spoil the plot of plays for folks, so I’ll just end the plot there. Does the former attorney turned major possess what it takes to take a historic stand against slavery?
You’ll need to book your ticket to see the surprising and abrupt ending that has audiences walking away with a smile reflecting on a show that can at times be intense but evokes plenty of emotions. This is a show that I think shouldn’t be missed if you enjoy drama, comedy and history and this show nails all three.
“Ben Butler” is playing at Florida Repertory Theatre through November 10th. Call the Florida Rep box office at 239-332-4488