Unbound presents Arthur Miller comedy, “Resurrection Blues”

Rachel Pittenger Staff Writer

This weekend, Unbound will sponsor Arthur Miller’s “Resurrection Blues,” directed by Katherine Browning ’07. Miller was a famous playwright notorious for his public opposition to the McCarthy communist scare of the 1950s, as well as his turbulent marriage to Marilyn Monroe. He is one of the most respected playwrights of the 20th century and wrote such classics as “Death of a Salesman” and “The Crucible.” “Resurrection Blues,” a black comedy, premiered in Minneapolis in 2002 and was performed in London this year under direction from Kevin Spacey and the late Robert Altman.

“Resurrection Blues” is a political satire that takes place in an ambiguous third-world Latin American country, and was completed shortly prior to Miller’s death in 2005. It explores the role of the media under a corrupt government.

The story concerns a young revolutionary taken prisoner by a dictator named Felix Barriaux, who in turn decides to broadcast the revolutionary’s execution by crucifixion on television in order to make money. The revolutionary performs miracles and may represent the second coming of Christ, though Miller neither affirms nor denies the character’s divinity in the play.

According to Browning, a first-time director, the Vassar production stays true to Miller’s original script. Browning’s personal interest in the play stems from her background as a political science major and an active drama participant. She said that Unbound seemed like a good way to combine the two worlds of politics and theater. Throughout rehearsals, Browning sought a balance between a fine-tuned product and an enjoyable process.

Browning also stated that the play touches on relevant themes such as cycles of violence and power relations. On a global level, the play explores how individuals are connected to power systems, and “each character has a justification for [their actions],” even if they may not be morally right.

Unbound often performs political theater like “Resurrection Blues,” hoping to raise awareness about political issues. In addition to plays, the mostly student-run group has sponsored comedy acts, readings, and open-mic events as part of their commitment to maintaining political awareness in the arts.

“Resurrection Blues” will present three performances on Dec. 7, 8, and 9 at 8 p.m. in Sanders Auditorium. Tickets are available at the Information Desk.