The Hairy Ape (2025)
One of America’s greatest playwrights? Balancing multiple characters and accents? Putting up a highly physical, devised work in two weeks? My cup of tea.
Director Hayden Eric (linked below) thought “The Hairy Ape” by Eugene O’Neill would be a perfect tool to explore a complex question, one the echos as much today as it did in 1922. What happens when technology and culture advance faster than people are able or willing to change?
The play follows Yank, a sailor, who sources his sense of power in his work as a “stoker on the liners.” He’s responsible for powering (shoveling coal on) a steam-powered ship. In so doing, he powers the engine and his brute strength runs the world—at least thats the way he sees. With one chance encounter, however, physical dominance gives way to arrogance, chauvinism, and a raging need for retribution.
At the same time, the world is on the cusp of political and technological change. Forces move that Yank can’t grasp. Despite efforts on both sides, Yank either refuses to change or antagonizes those that might help him. He is left to himself and his basest instincts, left to meet grave ends.
In a moment when AI and political tumult leave us feeling on the edge of an abyss, Hayden felt this question was as pertinent as ever, and wanted to put together a workshop exploring this idea.
It never felt so good to put in six hour rehearsals, shovel coal, throw ‘bows at one another, or play a murderous ape. I learned an incredible amount from the cast about, and am forever grateful for the incomparable and essential yoga warmups.
The Hairy Ape, by Eugene O’Neill
Produced & Directed by Hayden Eric
Stage Manager: Carolyn J. Applebaum
Asst. Director/Prod. Asst: Amanda Berkson
Fight/Movement Captain: Christopher Joel Onken
Musical Accomp: Josh Romeo
featuring
A.K. Young
Photos by Hayden Eric, Amanda Berkson, Sarah Cadena
*Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association/Equity Approved Showcase
