As fans of Stephen Sondheim may know, Passion is not as widely prod'suced as some of his other musicals. There are many reasons for this. The music can be quite challenging. The show itself has an unconventional structure, and to some that might be off-putting. For others, it might be the subject-matter—and more specifically, the complicated relationship between Fosca and Giorgio at the center.
Passion follows Giorgio (Evan Bradford), a young soldier in early 19th-century Italy. He leaves his lover, Clara (Rachel Guth) early in the show to go off to war. As they say goodbye through the song “Happiness,” it’s easy to see just how in love they are. Clara so clearly does not want him to go, and Giorgio struggles with the choice as he realizes how little time they have had together. Guth's and Bradford’s stunning voices alone make the song memorable, but the clear emotional depth they bring to the piece pushes the heartbreaking moment over the top.
Upon reaching the military camp, nothing quite goes according to plan. Giorgio meets Fosca (Brittney Brown), a young woman trapped in her own body by an unknown illness that overtakes her at unexpected moments. When Fosca realizes she is in love with Giorgio, an unconventional relationship forms—one that begins with a touch of manipulation on the part of Fosca. However, it transforms into something that neither quite expects. Is it love, or is it simply a high level of passion? We as an audience are left to wonder as we watch the relationship unfold.
Regardless of how complicated or non-traditional, Blank Theatre’s production certainly does the work of carrying the audience along, easing us into the twists and turns. Directed by Danny Kapinos, this production showcases stunning vocalists, an ensemble that tackles that challenging material with ease. Scenic designer Hayley Wallenfeldt smartly leans into a simple design, allowing the music to do its work in the storytelling.
The ensemble as a whole is quite strong, with a standout performance particularly by Brittney Brown. You might find that Fosca is not an easy role to tackle. The character is considered “ugly” and “unlovable” by those surrounding her. In believing these things to be true about herself, she sets out to manipulate Giorgio into loving her simply because she is sick. However, Brown manages to create a character for whom we can cheer on. There’s an emotional, grounded quality in Brown’s work that allows us to feel for her, and perhaps even want her to succeed.
To put it simply, Passion is a feat. Whether you are a long-time Sondheim fan or this is your introduction, the stunning vocalists and a gorgeous score make this production an experience to remember.
Passion runs through August 10 at Greenhouse Theatre Center, 2257 N Lincoln Ave. For tickets and information, see the Blank Theatre Company website.
For more information on this and other productions, see theatreinchicago.com.
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