The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui

The Dundee Rep ensemble is advancing on a community hall near you – a suitable allegory considering the theme of the irresistible production of The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui, writes Peter Cargill.

German playwright Bertolt Brecht’s satirical interpretation of the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party is given added ridicule in Rep director Joe Douglas’s production, with a degree of gender swapping – for example, Guiseppe Givolo (a parallel for Joseph Goebbels) is played by Emily Winter and Mr and Mrs Dullfoot are played by Irene Macdougall (also Old Dogsborough) and Martin McBride, respectively.

Written in 1941 while Hitler rampaged, it was not staged until 1958, two years after Brecht’s death and, of course, the subjects of his lampooning were long gone.

We are in Chicago in the 1930s. Gangster Arturo Ui is ruthlessly disposing of his opponents as he takes control and becomes top racketeer. But this is not drugs or alcohol. No, he becomes top dog in the cauliflower industry.

His instruction in deportment and public speaking is a hilarious interlude from Brian James O’Sullivan (Ui) and Billy Mack (The Actor) as they recite Mark Antony’s speech from Julius Caesar.

As the action unfolds, Ui’s appearance evolves. Following a musical opening (Mr O’Sullivan is also musical director) and an opening address to the audience, the famous moustache appears. Later come the jackboots, culminating in full uniform and armbands.

In a community centre venue, the action is up close and personal with much of the action spilling into the audience.

Seventy years is a short time in history, and this play will still resonate and provide a certain degree of smug enjoyment which comes with ridicule of a muchhated figure.

The production is visiting various centres until June 17 and is at the Rep this Thursday to Saturday.