During the events of World War II, Jean Giraudoux was disturbed by the occupation of Germany in France and the way the citizens sat idly. He expressed his discontent in the best way he knew how: by writing a play.
Set in a cafe in Chaillot (pronounced Shy-oh), France, Giraudoux creates a variety of characters to introduce the countess, the madwoman of Chaillot, to the wrongdoings in life. As she learns about the truth of the world, she decides to take action against the rich and greedy.
Every character plays an important role in showcasing the impact previous events have on society. But with each character’s entrance, the story seems to get less and less serious.
Although the play may seem absurd upon first watch, a second glance shows that every art form has a message to convey.
“I think good plays ask questions while they entertain,” theater director Dr. Michael Butterworth said.
Contrary to popular belief, media–printed, broadcasted, or digital–does not solely exist to bring a smile to the audience’s face. It’s a means to express opinion or send messages to the masses in a way that is still enjoyable.
“The playwright saw greed and careless disregard for the environment as root causes for war. So he creates these ridiculous, exaggerated characters and situations in order to play up the absurdity of unchecked greed,” Butterworth said.
More than simply war and greed, some also see commentary on the government.
“Any play is obviously up to the interpretation of the audience, but in my opinion, it’s showing that the rich people have power, and morals are lost because of that power,” senior thespian Isabella Schmitt said.
While some might assume that this play was chosen specifically because of current events, that is not the only reason. Dr. Butterworth’s first performance at Liberty was The Madwoman of Chaillot, and he wanted to present it once more before he retires.
Butterworth also said, “I always try to find plays that have some kind of message or theme that I think will resonate with young people.”
Schmitt agrees:
“It’s important for Liberty students to realize that they are getting to the point in their lives where they are adults and this is the world where they are growing up in. And it’s not disconnected from them. It is connected to them; it is connected to their lives and futures.”
But still, plays exist to entertain. No matter how depressing the reason behind why a show was written, every playwright aims to please, whether through humor–where The Madwoman of Chaillot has plenty–or through a happy story and ending.
“I also think that there’s some underlying more positive meaning about life, enjoyment, and humanity that I think are really important and are really exciting to explore and look at,” Schmitt said.
The students in Theatre Production have been working hard for the past few months to prepare and present this show. Opening night is Friday, November 7, and more information on show dates can be found outside the PAC.
Before the show there is one final message from the director, Dr. Butterworth, to the audience:
“I think you’ll be surprised by how much you like this play.”