War is a difficult subject to address on stage. It evokes powerful emotions, strong political beliefs, and can spark debate and argument faster than many other topics. It is for such reasons that many people choose to avoid that subject entirely. And yet, Bill Cain's powerful drama 9 Circles, is a vastly rewarding and emotional journey that shines a light on the topic of war in a way that makes even a convicted war criminal a sympathetic character.
Curious Theatre Company is currently presenting the regional premier of 9 Circles, featuring a simple set, a small cast, and stunning performances. 9 Circles is the harrowing story of Daniel Reeves, a 19 year old soldier on trial for war crimes committed during his tour in Iraq. Nine scenes flow seamlessly as the audience is taken on a journey that mirrors the nine circles in Dante's Inferno. As Reeves sinks further and further into the depths of hell, so does the audience, forced to examine some of the most complex and troubling issues of our time.
9 Circles brings up the Abu Ghraib prison horrors, it deals with the difficult subject of soldiers with severe psychological issues, and, at its core, it manages to allow the audience to find compassion for a man that has committed atrocious crimes. It is a well written and deeply moving piece of art that will haunt you days after you've left the theatre.
Directed by Christy Montour-Larson, 9 Circles features a tremendously talented cast. It is lead by young Sean Scrutchins in his Curious Theatre debut, and what a debut it is. It may have taken Scrutchins a moment or two to find his footing on opening night, but by the second scene Scrutchins took hold of the character and immersed himself and the audience in his story. Scrutchins is a force to see in this production, with a powerful and emotional journey and a commitment that is unrivaled.
The supporting cast is also extremely strong with Karen Slack, Erik Sandvold, and Michael McNeill all playing eight roles between them. They create the scenes in which Scrutchins falls into madness, sitting to the side when they are not on stage, witnessing his decent. Truly, this is an ensemble show, and the entire cast is deserving of recognition.
9 Circles is an extremely powerful production, told with simplicity, heart, and total dedication. Get your tickets to see this production while you can, for it is a stunning statement about the horrors of war and the lives that it affects.
Curious Theatre Company Presents
9 Circles
Directed by Christy Montour-Larson
Thursday through Saturday 8:00 PM/ Sundays 2 PM
Playing through February 18, 2012
1080 Acoma Streed
Denver, CO 80204
Tickets start at $18
Call (303) 632-0524
or www.curioustheatre.org
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