Hughie

Reviewed By Daphnie Sicre

Before seeing Hughie, I wondered why Forest Whitaker would make his Broadway debut with a rarely seen theatrical production? Yet after experiencing it, I clearly understood his choice.

Pulitzer Prize playwright Eugene O’Neill’s masterpiece is a remarkable theatrical journey into the life of Erie Smith (Whitaker), a small time gambler and big time drunk on a losing steak. In the summer of 1928, after a four-day bender, Erie blames his losing streak on the recent death of Hughie, his only friend and the nighttime desk clerk at the New York City hotel where he resides. Upon his return, Erie meets Hughie’s replacement, the new desk night clerk, (Frank Wood).

Tony Award-winner director Michael Grandage places Whitaker’s talent front and center. Hughie is practically an hour-long monologue for Whitaker, centering on Erie’s conformation with loneliness and demons. Erie does everything possible to catch the new clerk’s attention yet the clerk remains reactionless for most of the piece. With no real job, family or future, Whitaker beautifully tackles his character’s ups and downs. Clearly, Whitaker wanted a challenge, and through his portrayal of Erie, he has found one.  

To visualize Erie’s journey through the night, Neil Austin’s light design changes according to Erie’s mood and Adam Cork’s sound design sets the tone from the beginning of the play with New York City street sounds to mystical music as the night progresses. 

Although Hughie does not open until February 25, previews are playing to sold-out audiences. And one thing is clear, audiences love Forest Whitaker. He can do no wrong.

Hughie, written by Eugene O'Neill.   Directed by Michael Grandage.  Set & Costumes: Christopher Oram. Lighting: Neil Austin. Sound: Adam Cork. At the Booth Theater 222 W. 45th St.  Feb 8-June June 12, 2016

Daphnie Sicre is a full-time instructor at BMCC-CUNY, where she teaches courses in theatre, social justice, and advanced public speaking.  Some of her NYC directing credits include: "Shower Me" at FringeNYC, "Stranger" for Stage Black where she won a Best Director Award; additionally, the Audelco nominated "Not About Eve."