‘THE NIGHT OF THE IGUANA’ UNLEASHED AT BOSTON COURT 

REVIEW: THE NIGHT OF THE IGUANA

BY RYAN M. LUEVANO

Boston Court Pasadena has taken a bold step into the theatrical landscape with its production of Tennessee Williams’s rarely staged play, The Night of the Iguana, directed by Jessica Kubzansky. This marks the play’s first major Los Angeles staging in nearly two decades, and with the largest ensemble cast since 2019. Set against the backdrop of a turbulent night at the Costa Verde hotel in Mexico, the narrative follows Reverend T. Lawrence Shannon, a defrocked minister grappling with his faith and sanity amidst the chaos of impending war. As he navigates his fraught relationships with two compelling women—one offering sensuality and the other spirituality—the play delves into profound questions of escape, self-bargaining, and the deep human desire for connection, making it a poignant exploration of the human condition at its most vulnerable.

Tennessee Williams’ The Night of the Iguana is a compelling exploration of human vulnerability and desire, adapted from his 1948 short story. The play, which made its Broadway debut in 1961 after a lengthy development process, showcases Williams’ signature style, reminiscent of his acclaimed works like A Streetcar Named Desire and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Set against the backdrop of the Costa Verde Hotel in Mexico, the narrative unfolds through a rich tapestry of outcast characters, each grappling with their own psychological struggles. Williams’s poetic language breathes life into their inner conflicts, emphasizing themes of longing and loss. While the play’s focus on internal (characters’ psychological conflict) versus plot-driven conflict may limit its broader appeal, and the requirement for a sizable cast of fifteen can pose challenges for production, it remains a poignant and compelling play. Audiences are invited to witness the intimate moments of these flawed yet relatable individuals, making Night of the Iguana a beautiful journey into the complexities of the human spirit.

In her masterful direction of The Night of the Iguana, Jessica Kubzansky has expertly extracted every nuance from Tennessee Williams’ text, crafting a truly captivating and immersive theatrical experience. A standout achievement of this production lies in the meticulous attention to the delivery of William’s signature dialogue. Kubzansky has guided her cast with the precision of a maestro conducting a Beethoven symphony, ensuring that each character’s lines resonate with their own distinct rhythm. When these individual deliveries intertwine, they create a rich tapestry of sound that oscillates between moments of tension and tranquility, enhancing the emotional depth of the play.

The visual components of The Night of the Iguana significantly enhance its atmospheric allure and immersive experience. Tesshi Nakagawa’s set design features a minimalist tropical hotel crafted from exotic wood and rope, with vertical bar-like walls that evoke a sense of confinement, underscoring the play’s central theme of entrapment. Meanwhile, Kaitlin Trimble’s lighting beautifully captures the essence of the tropical setting, skillfully transitioning to mirror the descent of the sun and the enchanting glow of the moonlit sky.

Riley Shanahan as Reverend T. Shannon is captivating from start to finish; his inner turmoil is palpable. He builds tension scene by scene, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats for when he will finally have a mental breakdown. His portrayal of a disillusioned man at the end of his rope is interesting and relatable. Julanne Chidi Hill as Maxine, the sex crazed hotel manager, is thrilling. She knows how to take command of a scene with character-driven motivation. Jully Lee as Hannah Jelkes is the perfect balance to Maxine’s big energy. Lee’s moments on stage are calculated and controlled, offering a grounding breath to the chaos caused by the surrounding characters.   

Even the supporting characters in this production bring a remarkable depth and intrigue to the performance. Ann Noble‘s portrayal of Miss Fellowes demonstrates that the strength of one’s convictions can overshadow any opponent—her prudery is both formidable and compelling. Dennis Dun brings depth to the role of Nonno, the world’s oldest living, practicing poet, infusing the character with a sense of enduring wisdom and quiet gravitas. Meanwhile, Isabella Feliciana’s brief but vibrant performance as Charlotte Goodall captures the exuberance of youth, reminding the audience of the chaotic energy that comes with teenage life.

Boston Court Pasadena’s production of The Night of the Iguana is a triumphant revival that breathes new life into Tennessee Williams’ timeless exploration of the human spirit. Under Jessica Kubzansky’s deft direction, the cast delivers powerful performances that resonate with authenticity and emotional depth, inviting audiences to reflect on their own vulnerabilities and desires. The seamless integration of striking visuals and evocative dialogue creates an immersive experience that lingers long after the final curtain falls. This production not only honors Williams’ legacy but also reaffirms the relevance of his themes in today’s world, making it a must-see for both seasoned theatre-goers and newcomers alike. Night of the Iguana is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, the quest for connection and understanding remains a universal pursuit.

MORE INFORMATION

WHEN:
Preview Performances: September 11, 12, 13, 18, 19 at 7:30PM; September 14 at 2PM
Opening Night Performance: Saturday, September 20, 7:30PM
Performances: September 21-October 19
Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and a few Mondays at 7:30PM and Sundays at 2PM
WHERE:
Boston Court Pasadena
70 N Mentor Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91106
Free parking is available directly behind the building.
TICKET PRICES:
$10 – $72 including fees
HOW:
https://bostoncourtpasadena.org/events/iguana/
(626) 683-6801
ClaireD@bostoncourt.com