Revew : THE MAID'S TRAGEDY

 The Maid's Tragedy calls into question the divine right of Kings and must have caused quite a stir when it premiered in the early 1600s.  It is the only tragedy by Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher and many consider it their masterpiece.

It still packs a potent punch despite writing that often belabours its points although it does do so with language rich in imagery.

What elevates this production into the stratosphere is the taught direction of Patrick Young working with a terrific ensemble cast. 

Richard Chan shines at the rule of Rhodes.  Chan has a commanding presence, and chooses to play the role as a man who sincerely believes he is well within his rights to seduce the sister of his leading warrior, Melantius.

Miguel Rivas is Melantius. Rivas is a charismatic actor, blessed with near-perfect diction and voice that carries to the far corners with authority. It is star performance that is easily one of the season's highlights.

His scenes with Craig McDermott as his friend and brother-in-law Amintor have an ease and passion that underscores their life-long friendship. McDermott navigates the tricky assignment of playing the tormented nobleman cuckolded by his wife and his king without resorting to melodramatics. 

As the unfaithful wife, Sarah Spencer runs the gamut of emotions from cold and self-loathing to anguished to crazed in a performance that is riveting.  In a lighter vein Eric Double as Keeper of the Fort offers some humorous asides, while Diana Cofini makes the most of her scenes as his heartbroken sister, Aspatia.

The staging utilizes a unique two-tiered set that effectively allows the top level to become a ship, a bedchamber and a lookout at the fort.  Eric Fornier does an admirable job staging the fights, but it is director Patrick Young who has the true vision here to harness the talents of all these players and use their collective efforts to transform The Maid's Tragedy into a really powerful production. 

Theatre Erindale's production of The Maid's Tragedy continues at Erindale Studio Theatre on the campus of the University of Toronto at Mississauga until Saturday February 17. Performances begin at 7:30 Tuesday thru Thursday, 8PM on Friday and Saturday with a 2 PM matinee on Saturday. Tickets are available by calling the Theatre Box Office at 905-569-4369.