John Webster’s “The Duchess of Malfi” is a Jacobean revenge tragedy that delves into the darkest recesses of the human psyche. This chilling exploration of power, love, and revenge is set against a backdrop of political intrigue and moral decay. Now you have a chance to see it in a riveting new production by the Open House Theatre.
The story revolves around the titular character, the Duchess of Malfi, a widowed noblewoman who defies societal norms by marrying her steward, Antonio. This act of defiance infuriates her brothers, Ferdinand and the Cardinal, who are driven by a twisted sense of familial duty and a wish to control her life.
Ferdinand is a complex and disturbing figure, consumed by a toxic mix of love and hatred for his sister. His obsession with her, coupled with his increasingly erratic behavior, and his disturbing fixation on her sexuality and motherhood suggest a disturbing, deeply unhealthy and potentially incestuous attachment. This theme of forbidden love and the destructive power of unchecked passion is a central element of the play. Yet the exact nature of Ferdinand’s feelings is open to interpretation.
A revenge tragedy
“The Duchess of Malfi” is a quintessential example of the Jacobean revenge tragedy genre, characterized by its focus on violence, intrigue, and moral ambiguity. The play’s dark and disturbing atmosphere is heightened by its graphic depictions of madness, assault, and murder.
Webster’s play (written in 1612–1613) delves into the consequences of abuse of power and defiance. The play is loosely inspired by real events that took place between 1508 and 1513, centering around Giovanna d’Aragona, Duchess of Amalfi (d. 1511). Like the play’s narrative, Giovanna secretly married Antonio Beccadelli di Bologna after the death of her first husband, Alfonso I Piccolomini, Duke of Amalfi. Giovanna´s fate has inspired several literary works.
While the Duchess of Malfi’s tragic fate remains a central theme, the play serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the destructive power of upholding “family honor” and societal expectations. Webster’s exploration of power dynamics and the corrupting influence of unchecked ambition runs as a red threat throughout the play. The brothers’ relentless pursuit of revenge and their manipulation of others highlight the destructive nature of unchecked power in a world filled with violence, madness, and moral ambiguity. The play’s exploration of power dynamics and the corrupting influence of unchecked ambition is as relevant today as it was in the 17th century.
The Open House Theatre in Vienna is staging a modern interpretation of this timeless classic theme. This production explores the play’s dark themes with a fresh perspective, blending traditional performance with contemporary elements . Despite the high and violent drama, the play also offers wonderful insights into the true nature of love. Witnessing the Duchess and Antonio fall in love is pure delight.
The performances are nothing short of extraordinary. Tess Hermann and Cesar Sampson bring a visceral passion to their roles as the Duchess and Antonio, their palpable chemistry igniting the stage.
Randall Galera delivers a chilling performance as the depraved Cardinal, while Pete Steele’s portrayal of the disturbed Ferdinand is both terrifying and captivating.
Owen Lindsay, the co-director, shines as the manipulative Bosola, his performance both subtle and sinister.
The supporting cast also delivers strong performances, dancing, singing, and displaying some serious skills for intrigue and malfeasance. Lisa Sigismondi sparkles as Julia, and Jessica De Jong is seductive as Antonio’s faithful friend Delio, while Jacob Liss credibly and humorously pulls off a bumbling aristocrat.
If you’re in Vienna, I highly recommend attending this production. The play’s exploration of female empowerment, toxic masculinity, and the destructive nature of unchecked desire is as relevant today as it was in the 17th century. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a powerful and disturbing exploration of the human psyche
I took these photos at a rehearsal, they are from the first act only. To see the second, I am just going to have to get tickets…
Directed by Owen Lindsay
The play premieres November 5 and runs until November 16, 2024.
Where:
Theater Arche
Münzwardeingasse 2A
1060 Wien
Presented by the Open House Theatre in association with Wide Open Vienna and the Bilingual Schauspielakademie (BSA).
(No, as usual, I am not being paid to write this.)
Before the start of the dress rehearsal
ViennaCultgram 