Newburgh - For many, art appeared to be mimicking life on the Newburgh Actor’s Studio stage last weekend.
Twelve Angry Men, originally written by Reginald Rose as a movie script back in 1957, was staged as a play production at the intimate black box theater. Containing themes of racism and stereotyping, the 90 minute performance focuses in on our jury system. It further delves into the sometimes hasty accusations we make when determining a person’s judicial fate.
In the play, directed by Keaton Weiss, a young minority male is up on trial for the supposed murder of his father. Initially, all but one juror, #8, are convinced of his guilt. However, as the plot slowly unfolds, we bear witness to the potent effect of one man’s ability to stand alone, logically dissect what are presumed facts, and in the process sway his fellow jurors.
For the theater’s owner, Mark Gamma, who also plays the primary naysayer (Juror #3) to overturning his original guilty vote, the timing to stage the piece could not have been more ideal.
"I specifically chose to stage this play because I truly feel after 100 years our society is just as prejudice as ever," explained Gamma. "I also think it’s important for people to see this play, especially in light of what is going on in Newburgh."
Many were sold on that importance, as Sunday’s performance filled every one of the theater’s fifty seats. Amongst the 13 member cast, was City of Newburgh resident and veteran actor Richard Logan, who portrayed Juror #6.
"My character is the undecided one, who tries to keep everyone calm and things moving along," explained Logan, who has been acting for 20 years. "This is an important play to see because seeing a young man railroaded for where he comes from, and having one person stand up and say no let’s talk about this, while forcing them to see with more clarity there is a doubt, is what really matters."
Logan was further quick to cite the amazing chemistry amongst the all-male cast. He further pointed to the ideal casting, stressing that each juror appears made for the role he occupies. The result is a great deal of energy, igniting a plot, laden with pertinent and powerful messages.
"What happens in this play is still very relevant today with suspected terrorists, poor people and ones just in the wrong neighborhood," said Logan. "Day after day you see it, the suspect fits the jury’s idea of what the perpetrator is."
Yet another Newburgh resident makes up the diverse cast. Hasan Gray, from the Town of Newburgh, has been doing movie extra work for the past ten years. His role as juror #5 marked his stage premiere in a speaking part.
"I’ve learned a lot working with such an experienced group of actors," pointed out Gray. "The messages of racism in this play still stand up today, and everyone will come out with a different look and feel in what they see, what’s so interesting."
Following Sunday’s production, the audience’s reactions clearly spoke to the timelessness of what they viewed.
"It was an excellent show; there is such hidden talent in this City," exclaimed lifelong Newburgh resident, Fran Galloway. "The impeccable logic was the most enjoyable part for me."
Her husband, Allen Galloway, also a Newburgh native as well as former foreman on a jury, shook his head in agreement.
"Seeing the interaction of all the jurors and the foreman keeping control were just so realistic," he added.
If you were unable to attend last weekend’s showing, you will have another opportunity this weekend. Twelve Angry Men returns to the Newburgh Actor’s Studio Friday and Saturday nights with 8pm curtains as well as a 5pm showing Sunday. Call 569-8593 for reservations.
