“Big River” is an extraordinary theatrical experience. The Deaf West Theatre production at the Mark Taper Forum manages to present, with ingenuity, an engaging classic with a cast consisting of both hearing and deaf members. At first, it does seem a bit strange, but soon the use of sign language and the dubbing of words for the deaf actors become perfectly acceptable and, indeed, comfortable.
But “Big River” is much more than a gimmick that allows a deaf company to perform in a regular theater. The morality tale of Huckleberry Finn is given a handsome production that allows for the clever maneuvering of the cast. Huge “pages” of Mark Twain’s book are moved about to serve as magical sets, and there are oohs and aahs as the famous raft is recreated and moves down the Mississippi River.
Credit for the fanciful directing and choreography goes to Jeff Calhoun who was able to integrate the eye and the ear cultures in a most delightful way.
In his book, Mark Twain addresses the institution of slavery by allowing Huck Finn to escape from his civilized relatives by running away with a slave. Here Huck’s conscience must come into play as he tries to decide whether to turn in Jim or stick by his friend. Huck acts from the heart and all turns out well in the end. William Hauptman has adeptly adapted the book.
The cast is absolutely delightful. Huck is played by a deaf actor named Tyrone Giordano, whose look of sweet innocence immediately wins you over. He conveys every emotion convincingly although someone else is reciting his lines. Jim is played by the wonderful singer/actor, Rufus Bonds, Jr., who roared as Mustafa in “The Lion King.” Another major contributor is Scott Waara who is warm and convincing as Mark Twain and also serves as the voice of Huck. Michael Davis is an energetic Tom Sawyer.
Laughs come from those two villainous royals, Troy Kotsur as the Duke and Lyle Kanouse as the King. The singers are all excellent, while Gwen Stewart stands out with her shimmering solo as a slave. There are almost two dozen lovely songs, performed by five musicians named Steven Landau, John David, Tim Christensen, Richard Greene and Scott Higgins. The music and lyrics are by Roger Miller.
The costumes by David R. Zyla are handsome with the women in their flouncy Southern gowns and the respectable men in colorful formal attire. Zyla has also come up with remarkably scruffy clothes for Jim and Huck’s “Papp.” Authenticity reigns.
This is a show for all the members of the family. It is not only uplifting but lots of fun.