Heartbreak House at the Shaw Festival is a meandering case of bourgeois blues, but it's a captivating journey through the complexities of human relationships and societal critique. The play, written by the company's namesake, Bernard Shaw, is a three-act masterpiece that explores the superficialities of well-to-do romance and the existential context of a brewing war. The production, directed by Tim Carroll, is a study in contrasts, with high highs in performances and low lows in length.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Heartbreak House is its rather Chekhovian approach to plot. There isn't much happening in the macro sense, but Shaw is more interested in the existential context of the human drama. The play frames the superficialities of well-to-do romance within the backdrop of a brewing war that threatens to eradicate the English countryside. This creates an intentionally ambiguous timing, with exquisite costumes and a sparse set that adds to the sense of unease.
The play's genius lies in its ability to capture the complexities of human relationships. The various couples, including Ellie Dunn and her much older fiancé, profess their love for one another, only to yank their affections back when they're not reciprocated. This chafes with Shaw's usual brand of social critique, but it also adds depth to the characters and their motivations.
One of the most clever aspects of the production is Carroll's addition of a butler and maid, who help to break down the fourth wall between the action and the audience. This creates an additional layer of class commentary as the lovers enter and exit the Shotover residence. It's a brilliant intervention that adds texture to the script and helps to highlight the play's critique of the English aristocracy.
However, the play's length is a significant drawback. The second part of the play feels endless and rubbery, like a turtle forever in search of its next sunning spot. The final act's payoff is (nearly) worth the wait, but the play's runtime could have been reduced with a second intermission. Despite this, the play is a captivating journey through the complexities of human relationships and societal critique, and it's a must-see for fans of Shaw's work.
In my opinion, Heartbreak House is a masterpiece of social critique and existential drama. It's a play that requires patience and curiosity, but it's a journey that's well worth taking. The performances are exceptional, and the production is a testament to the Shaw Festival's commitment to exploring the complexities of human relationships and societal critique.
