Key Takeaways:
- The Two Crows Theatre Co. has opened its 2026 season with the world premiere of "Before the Mountains of Madness," a loose adaptation of an H.P. Lovecraft story.
- The play follows the story of James Clarke, a reluctant Antarctic explorer, and his friend Edward as they embark on a deadly adventure to the South Pole in search of ancient knowledge.
- The production features a talented cast, including Neil Brookshire and Nate Burger, who bring the story to life with their performances and the help of sound and set design.
- The play explores themes of friendship, hubris, and the human cost of adventure, raising questions about the cost of knowledge and what is too high to pay.
- The production is a must-see for fans of Lovecraft and those who enjoy unsettling and unknowable stories.
Introduction to the Play
The cold winter weather sets the tone for a chilling theatrical experience as the audience makes their way to the Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret in Spring Green to watch the world premiere of "Before the Mountains of Madness." This loose adaptation of an H.P. Lovecraft story, directed by Marcus Truschinski and written by David Daniel, is a sweeping drama that draws the audience in with its mysterious monsters and supernatural horror. The play is a testament to the enduring appeal of Lovecraft’s work, which has captivated filmmakers and playwrights with its unique blend of science fiction and horror.
The Story Unfolds
The story follows James, played by Neil Brookshire, a bookish narrator who writes pulpy adventure stories based on the travels of his childhood best friend, Edward, played by Nate Burger. When James and Edward spot something otherworldly on a map of the Antarctic, they embark on an epic adventure to the South Pole in search of ancient knowledge. As they journey through the frozen tundra, they encounter a range of characters, including irascible seaman MacGregor, barrel-bellied Dr. Davies, and young Irish navigator William. Burger’s impressive performance brings these characters to life, swapping between roles with ease and conjuring entire scenes from thin air.
Bringing the Story to Life
The production’s use of sound and set design is instrumental in bringing the story to life. The set, designed by Nathan Stuber, features sprays of turquoise and icy blue ripples on cold white shards, evoking the harsh and unforgiving environment of the Antarctic. The lighting, designed by Lea Branyan, adds to the atmosphere, conjuring caves and campfires that transport the audience to the frozen wilderness. The sound design, created by Ben Feiner, is equally impressive, conjuring packs of sled dogs from thin air and adding to the sense of tension and unease that permeates the play.
Exploring Themes
Throughout the play, Daniel’s script explores the human cost and hubris of the expedition, raising questions about the cost of knowledge and what is too high to pay. The play navigates a slippery course between heavy pantomime and audience imagination, summoning sheer black cliffs and biting winds that leave the audience chilled to the bone. As the story unfolds, the audience is forced to confront the consequences of the characters’ actions, and the true cost of their quest for knowledge. The play’s exploration of friendship and the bonds that tie people together is also a highlight, as James and Edward’s relationship is put to the test in the face of unimaginable horrors.
Conclusion
The ending of the play is a masterclass in building tension and suspense, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats as the characters face their greatest challenge yet. As the audience files out of the theater, they are left to ponder the questions raised by the play, and the true cost of the characters’ actions. The cold winter weather outside seems almost welcoming after the chilling experience of watching "Before the Mountains of Madness," a testament to the power of the play to transport and unsettle its audience. With its talented cast, impressive production design, and thought-provoking themes, "Before the Mountains of Madness" is a must-see for fans of Lovecraft and those who enjoy unsettling and unknowable stories.
