A Deep Dive into 'Anna Christie': Michelle Williams Shines on Stage

Exploring 'Anna Christie'

Thomas Kail's luminous revival of Eugene O'Neill's timeless play has cast a spell, transporting us to the tumultuous life of Anna Christie, portrayed with breathtaking depth by Michelle Williams. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, 'Anna Christie' explores the struggle of a woman navigating the choppy waters of her tumultuous past and uncertain future.

“I thought you was some mermaid out of the sea come to torment me,” Mat Burke, played by Tom Sturridge, whimsically accuses Anna, encapsulating the play's blend of romance and harsh reality.

The Character of Anna

Anna, a young woman returning to her father's life after a dark past in Minnesota, is caught in the storm of her own identity. Williams delivers a nuanced performance that showcases Anna's fear and vulnerability, contrasted with her resilience and desire for love. As she steps onto the deck of her father's barge off Provincetown, Mass., it's as if she is stepping into a new world, experiencing the thrill of life's possibilities amidst a fog of remorse and regret.

The Performance

Williams, age 45, embodies the essence of a 20-year-old overcoming her past, deftly maneuvering through the complexities of Anna's persona—a mix of tough, rural heartlander and sheltered woman. This duality enriches her character, making Anna relatable and complex. It's this brilliance that allows us to delve deeply into Anna's psyche even as the societal norms of the time threaten to capsize her.

• Menteel Yet Raw: The societal pressures creating an oppressive atmosphere for Anna are portrayed strikingly in the interactions she has with Mat and her father, Chris.
• Paternalism and Pride: Chris, a character played sensitively by Brian d'Arcy James, is a misguided protector, clinging to outdated notions of innocence while denying Anna the autonomy she desperately seeks.
• The Complexity of Love: Mat's intense, almost violent affection for Anna presents a thrilling yet troubling dynamic. His character provides both attraction and intimidation, further complicating Anna's journey.

Capturing the Essence of O'Neill

O'Neill's 'Anna Christie' is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the struggle for identity. It is essential viewing, not only for its rich character studies but also for the layers of social critique embedded within O'Neill's poignant dialogue. As Anna struggles to redefine herself, we are reminded of our own battles against societal expectations and judgments.

The Experience at St. Ann's Warehouse

The St. Ann's Warehouse, with its East River view that resonates with the original 1930 Greta Garbo film, sets the perfect stage for this modern revival. The set design by Christine Jones and Brett J. Banakis elevates the experience, echoing the industrial ambiance while chronicling the metamorphosis of life on the water. It's a feast for the senses, from the moody lighting by Natasha Katz to Jeremy Chernick's enveloping fog. Yet, in this production, even the chaos—like the occasional mishaps of fog machines—adds to the experience, more than a reminder of the live theater's unpredictable nature.

Final Thoughts

While 'Anna Christie' showcases the raw emotional landscape of its characters, it also serves as a reflection of the broader issues of gender and identity, making it a poignant and compelling work for modern audiences. This revival is not merely a trip down memory lane; it's a reminder of the emotional depths contained within classical texts, rebirthed with vibrancy through a contemporary lens.

Don't miss: 'Anna Christie' runs through February 1 at St. Ann's Warehouse. More details can be found at stannswarehouse.org. Prepare for an engaging evening of theater that promises to resonate long after the curtain falls.