Apollinaire Theatre Company’s latest production, ‘The Squirrels,’ written by Robert Askins and directed by Brooks Reeves, is drawing attention for its curious mix of humor and horror. The play, presented at Chelsea Theatre Works, takes an unusual narrative path with its focus on the beleaguered lives of squirrels in a fantastical setting.
While Askins previously gained acclaim for balancing dark comedy and horror in works like ‘Hand to God,’ which featured a Texas teen possessed by a satanic sock puppet, ‘The Squirrels’ seems to stumble. Critics are noticing a level of desperation in the playwright’s approach, with the feeling that he is casting out ideas in hopes that some will resonate.
‘The Squirrels’ does manage to showcase one standout performance, provided by Thain Burtin. Burtin takes on a double role as both a charismatic scientist who narrates the story and, more notably, as Sciuridae, a clever and manipulative gray squirrel.
Sciuridae is crafted as a combination of Shakespeare’s Iago and Kieran Culkin’s character from HBO’s ‘Succession,’ delivering lines with a blend of oleaginous insinuation and passive-aggression that eventually moves into overt hostility.
At the center of the conflict is Sciurus, portrayed by Dev Luthra, who represents a sort of entitlement typical of the wealthy elite, with his denial of cognitive decline paralleling figures like Joe Biden. Sciurus has amassed a significant collection of nuts yet refuses to share with those in need.
His partner, Mammalia, played by Cara Clough, and his biological daughter, Chordata (performed in one showing by Audrey Johnson), along with his adopted daughter, Rodentia (Sophia Koevary), create a familial dynamic that struggles against external pressures. Rodentia’s love for the assertive fox squirrel Carolinensis (Mateo Bailey) ushers in the central conflict; Carolinensis urges Sciurus to share his abundant nuts, pointing out that he has more than enough to last for several winters.
However, Sciurus dismisses the plea, regarding the fox squirrels as ‘freeloaders’ and firmly denying their requests. This clash encapsulates the broader themes of economic disparity, pitting the wealthy against the impoverished.
Sciuridae seizes the moment to further his own agenda, using manipulative language to instigate division between the squirrels and the fox squirrels, referencing the fox squirrels’ perceived laziness and entitlement. These allegorical elements, while present, tend toward the heavy-handed commentary on societal issues, leading critics to feel that many of the play’s allusions are far too on-the-nose.
Despite the mixed reviews surrounding ‘The Squirrels,’ Apollinaire Theatre Company has solidified a reputation for ambitious productions under the guidance of artistic director Danielle Fauteux Jacques. Her vision for the theater has resulted in numerous standout performances in recent years, including acclaimed productions of ‘Uncle Vanya’ and ‘Dance Nation.’
Yet, audiences and critics alike may find that ‘The Squirrels’ does not reach the same level of success as previous offerings. The production runs through May 18, showcasing the bizarre yet thought-provoking world Askins has created, albeit with some skepticism regarding its efficacy.
‘While ‘The Squirrels’ offers a unique take on social themes through the lens of woodland creatures, it may struggle to leave a lasting impression amid its shortcomings,’ remarked one critic. ‘It appears Apollinaire will have to work hard to redeem the impact of this production moving forward.’
Tickets for ‘The Squirrels’ are priced between $25 and $65, with further details available at www.apollinairetheatre.com.
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