SOLANA BEACH, California –To borrow a line from Shakespeare’s Henry IV, “The first thing we do, let’s kill all the lawyers”. But wait, not so fast! If not for the quick thinking General Benjamin Franklin Butler, Shepard Mallory might not have survived the Civil War. North Coast Rep, and Artistic Director David Ellenstein, are thrilled to present the Southern California premiere of Ben Butler.
The four-act play was written in 2014 by Richard Strand and conveyed the moral dilemma a Union lawyer-cum general (Richard Baird) confronted when faced with a fugitive southern slave, Shepard Mallory (Brandon Pierce), who appeared at the Yankee fort “demanding” to see the general. The somewhat pompous and arrogant Gen. Butler appears to enjoy throwing his (considerable) weight around when it comes to rebuking his Lieutenant Kelly (Brian Mackey). Lt. Kelly demonstrates his loyalty and admiration of the general flawlessly.
The play so accurately portrays the contradictions of the era, of the Civil War itself. A battle that pitted brother against brother, was rife with conflicts, as plentiful as the characters themselves. “Ben” describes Shepard Mallory as “humble and arrogant at once.” Mallory surprises the general with his ability to read and with his incredibly articulate speech. As much sympathy as Butler has for this “Negro slave” he is also bound by the Fugitive Slave Act to return him to his rightful owner, Colonel Mallory. Yet, that doesn’t sit well with Butler. Fortunately, “lawyers know how to twist things and make them convoluted,” so, maybe there is some wiggle room?
When Major Cary, a Confederate from the sovereign state of Virginia, appears to reclaim his property, he showers his sibilants upon General Butler, sounding very snakelike. At this juncture, Gen. Butler uses his lawyerly manipulations to foil the plan. To tell you more would be tantamount to espionage or treason depending on your allegiance. Go see the play!
I have been a massive Richard Baird fan since I saw him in Season 24. This actor often delivers an intense performance, calling on his well of emotions and empathy. He is capable of a vast range of expressions, perfect accents, and delivering a full human in his characters. As General Ben Butler, Baird commandeers the stage in a role that supersedes any he has done before. We can see his conflict, his quick wit, his rapid problem-solving, and his moral dilemma. Baird is not only an actor extraordinaire but has most recently directed the massive hit Dancing Lessons, the superlative previous show in NCRT’s Season 40.
Brandon J. Pierce was new to me, and to North Coast Rep, but after seeing this actor inhabit Shepard Mallory, I know he will return soon. This East coaster has been in Exit Strategy, Native Son, Skeleton Crew, and Shakespeare in Love. He will be appearing soon in Birthday Candles at the Roundabout Theater. This actor wowed me with his ability to fill the stage with his being, and act as a worthy opponent to Baird’s presence.
Brain Mackey was absolutely delightful in his role as Lieutenant Kelly. Again, as a longtime fan of North Coast Rep and so many local area theaters, I have been tracking this actor’s growth. I must also make note of his credits on Write Out Loud, an amazing storytelling platform. This role is a great vehicle for this talented actor and allows him to demonstrate his humor, empathy, and humanity.
Though I was less familiar with Bruce Turk, I found his acting fabulous. He plays the role of this Southern major to the hilt, complete with his refusal to toast to the United States of America. Turk’s credits include acting and sometimes directing in local theaters, Same Time, Next Year, Faded Glory, Freud’s Last Session, and Hedda Gabler. Turk also has been a resident of Tadashi Suzuki’s Acting Company in Japan. He has performed on Hartford Stage and received awards for the TCG/Fox Fellowship for Distinguished Achievement. On screen, Turk was seen in “Murder in the first” “NUMB3RS” and “ER” among others.
Please, do yourself a favor and get tickets to this show. You will be rewarded with first-rate acting, a memorable and provocative story, and the lovely experience of live theater at North Coast Rep!
COVID regulations require your proof of vaccine or negative covid test and masks.
The show runs until Nov. 14, 2021.
Tickets are available online at northcoastrep.org or by phone at 858.481.1055.
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Eva Trieger is a freelance writer specializing in coverage of the arts. She may be contacted via eva.trieger@sdjewishworld.com