So over on Tumblr, which is where I keep, among other things, my obsession with Ben Linus (have you read that Glee/Lost crossover I beta? Because it’s good), I’ve been sort of half-pondering revenge tragedy and the subversion thereof.[1]
Anyway, in response to another post over there, I made the comment “… how much of revenge tragedy (or any tragedy, actually) is about the environment you’re in, the people around you, and what you’re allowed to be.”
So then yesterday, Jason posts his ideas for a production of Sweeney Todd where the environment around the people in the ensemble is driving them to create the story; these people are then forcing others (or volunteering themselves) to be the characters, and they’re not really allowing them to stop. Things spiral out of control. Tragedy ensues. So does revenge. On a couple of levels.
Imagine my surprise[2] and delight!
So, yeah, if you like theater in general, or Sweeney Todd in particular, that post is well worth a read. It’s long, but I feel like if you read this blog, you’re used to the occasional lengthy diatribe. :)
1 [back]Like, Ben Linus as subverted revenge tragedy. Or the Bride, from Kill Bill. Inigo Montoya. I’m sure there are others. I have a 30-40 minute commute to work, you think about these things.
2 [back]Okay, not really, I heard at least part of this during our up ’til 1am birthday chat last month. I am always willing to admit that Jason is an influence, whether I realize it at the time or not.
Laura E. Price 