Indeed, it’s a successful endeavor. Two old pals, renowned for their goofy adventures and always yearning to escape their current circumstances, engage in quirky yet deeply emotional dialogues. Their discussions may initially seem absurd, but they reveal genuine feelings and possibly true friendship. I’m unsure if the Bill & Ted films were filled with despair and suicidal thoughts, but the film’s stars, Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter, likely possess the talent for a more serious role, which they showcase in Samuel Beckett’s post-war masterpiece, Waiting for Godot. This production, directed by Jamie Lloyd, opens tonight at the Hudson Theatre on Broadway.
Lloyd, along with his creative team, including Soutra Gilmour (set and costume design), Jon Clark (lighting design), Ben and Max Ringham (sound design), and Cheryl Thomas (hair and makeup design), brings a sleek, modern aesthetic to the play. The production embodies 20th-century minimalism, combining shadows, ambient sounds, and deliberate perspectives.
The set features a notably large tunnel, made to appear stone-like and narrowing at the distance, creating an illusion of depth. While Beckett’s original stage directions refer to a “road” and “tree,” this rendition creatively opts for the tunnel, with a brightness occasionally illuminating the far end.
Estragon, or Gogo, played by Reeves, enters wearing a shabby suitcoat, bowler hat, and ill-fitting boots, while Vladimir, or Didi, portrayed by Winter, dons similarly themed attire with a slightly more contemporary cut. These characters, quintessential Beckett drifters, embody physical discomfort with aching feet and foul breath.
Upon meeting them, Estragon’s immediate frustration is palpable as he grapples with his uncomfortable footwear, stating, “Nothing to be done,” one of the most succinct opening lines in modern literature.
The duo, who often vacillate between acquaintanceship and friendship, ponder their existence and what tomorrow may hold. They realize they are in a state of anticipation for Godot, a mysterious figure whom Vladimir feels is significant to their lives. Yet, neither fully comprehends what Godot represents or whether he will indeed arrive, as his messengers come each day with word of his postponed appearance.
As they wait, they encounter Pozzo, a domineering character, played by Brandon J. Dirden, who oscillates between charming and threatening, accompanied by his servant Lucky, excellently portrayed by Michael Patrick Thornton. Thornton’s performance, especially during Lucky’s unexpected monologue, stands out. Despite their dire situation, Reeves and Winter channel their long-standing friendship into their characters’ interactions, blending Beckett’s brilliant writing with their unique dynamic, resulting in a compelling performance.
Title: Waiting for Godot
Venue: Broadway’s Hudson Theatre
Written By: Samuel Beckett
Directed By: Jamie Lloyd
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, Brandon J. Dirden, Michael Patrick Thornton
Running Time: 2 hr 15 min (including intermission)
