Review: KUNSTLER at 59E59 Theaters is Timely and Captivating

"I'm aware that I offended people."

-Kunstler

Kunstler, a compelling portrayal of the high profile trial lawyer William Kunstler, is now being performed at 59E59 Theaters through Sunday, March 12th. Written by Jeffrey Sweet and directed by Meagen Fay, the show is presented by The Creative Place International in Association with AND Theatre Company. This fascinating production provides a unique insight into Kunstler's life and times. With superb staging, this two-hander features the impeccable acting talents of Jeff McCarthy and Nambi E. Kelley. The show is timely as it addresses many of the civil liberty issues that Americans are facing today.

Kunstler is set on a college campus in 1995 where William Kunstler, at age 76, addresses a law school seminar about his colorful career as a defense attorney. His presence is met with raucous protests as students chant, "Kunstler must go" and "Kunstler is a traitor." To complicate his visit, Kerry, the bright young law student who is charged with the task of hosting him also has objections to his presence. Unfazed by the controversy and with his signature showmanship, Kunstler makes a presentation that chronicles noteworthy cases including his defense of the Freedom Riders, the Chicago Seven, the Attica Prison rioters, and the American Indian Movement. And although Kunstler was admired as an American civil rights pioneer, his brash style and representation of clients like Omar Abdel-Rahman, John Gotti and Joe Bonnano was very unpopular.

Jeff McCarthy's stunning performance brings William Kunstler, and his bombastic personality to life right before your eyes. McCarthy's dynamic portrayal is laced with both humor and drama. Nambi E. Kelley as Kerry captures the role of the bright, astute law student who thoughtfully expresses her reservations about some of Kunstler's legal philosophies. Audience members feel a part of the lively seminar as Kunstler recounts events that made national headlines along with his personal motivations.

The Creative Team has brought Kunstler to 59E59 Theaters with scenic design by James Fenton; assistant scenic design by Juli Reed; costume design by Elivia Bovenzi; lighting design Betsy Adams; original music and sound design by Will Severin. The Production Stage Manager is Mary Jane Hansen and the Assistant Stage Manager is Anny Degange.

Regardless of your opinion of William Kunstler, you will find Kunstler to be a captivating and entertaining show. Gather your group and get your tickets now.

The performance schedule for Kunstler is Tuesday - Thursday at 7:15 PM; Friday at 8:15 PM; Saturday at 2:15 PM & 8:15 PM; and Sunday at 3:15 and 7:15 PM. There are no Sunday evening performances on March 12. Performances are at 59E59 Theaters (59 East 59th Street, between Park and Madison Avenues). Tickets are $35 ($24.50 for 59E59 Members). To purchase tickets, call Ticket Central at (212) 279-4200 or go to www.59e59.org.

Photo Credit: Heidi Bohnenkamp

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