Review: Mark Strong and Lesley Manville Shine in Broadway’s ‘Oedipus’

Robert Icke’s modern adaptation of Sophocles’ “Oedipus,” now on Broadway, has quickly become a highlight of the fall season. Staged at Studio 54, this interpretation stars Mark Strong as Oedipus, a politician on the edge of a significant electoral victory. Strong’s portrayal is both charismatic and compassionate, reflecting a character who rejects traditional political norms.

Plot Overview

The play unfolds on election night, where Oedipus finds himself handling a politically charged atmosphere. He is confronting both a birther conspiracy and the lingering mystery surrounding the death of his predecessor, Laius. Strong’s Oedipus promises transparency, pledging to release his birth certificate and reopen the investigation into Laius’ unsolved death from 34 years ago.

Character Dynamics

• Jocasta: Lesley Manville delivers a standout performance as Oedipus’ wife, whose links to Laius add complexity to their relationship.
• Creon: Played by John Carroll Lynch, he portrays Oedipus’ brother-in-law and campaign strategist, managing the electoral operations.
• Antigone: Olivia Reis plays the scholarly daughter of Oedipus, who grapples with her father’s identity crisis.
• Merope: Anne Reid plays Oedipus’ mother, whose unexpected appearance adds urgency to Oedipus’ challenges.

Thematic Elements

Icke’s adaptation reframes the original tragedy into a commentary on modern political issues. The civic body is depicted as ailing from political malpractice, economic disparity, and societal division. Oedipus’ confidence and intellectual prowess create an intriguing paradox—he is both a problem solver and someone unaware of deeper truths about himself.

Staging and Direction

The production, which premiered in Amsterdam in 2018, utilizes a contemporary office set designed by Hildegard Bechtler, evoking a clinical atmosphere. This setting amplifies the sense of confinement and urgency as the election results draw near. The characters have nowhere to hide from the revelations that will disrupt their lives.

Character Conflicts

The familial dynamics are portrayed with depth; each character confronts their personal conflicts. Manville’s Jocasta exudes an elegant confidence that exacerbates tensions with Merope and Antigone. Meanwhile, Oedipus’ sons, Polyneices and Eteocles, are introduced with backstories that enrich the narrative, though they are not deeply explored within the limited runtime.

Critical Reception and Impact

Icke’s “Oedipus” has received attention for its modern lens on a classic story. Critics note the blend of political and personal tragedies, reflecting the hubris of contemporary leaders. With Strong’s layered performance, audiences are left to ponder the nature of knowledge and ignorance in leadership.

The adaptation loses some poetic elements in favor of prose, yet it remains a poignant reflection on the state of human understanding. Although some critics mention a diminished emotional impact at the conclusion, the production effectively highlights the hubris of politicians convinced they possess all the answers.

As “Oedipus” continues its Broadway run, it promises to provoke thought on the nature of power, identity, and fate—relevant themes in today’s political landscape.