American Justice
Arts Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 15th January 2013 (Press Night)
"American Justice is a political thriller about guilt and redemption in America’s deep south. Set during the eight years of an Obama administration, when idealism and forgiveness may not be all they seem. As Barack Obama sweeps to power, John Daniels (Peter Tate) is elected to Congress. The fulfillment of this political ambition is marred by personal tragedy when his only daughter is murdered in a random shooting by a feral, illiterate thug, Lee Fenton (Ryan Gage). Fenton is sentenced to death when Daniels, in an apparent act of altruism and forgiveness, appeals for clemency on the condition that he is allowed to educate the boy himself. What follows is a visceral exposé of criminal retribution, restorative justice and moral relativism."
After reading the blurb above, you may presume American Justice is a fast-paced, action-packed play... but this is certainly not the case. Instead American Justice is intelligent and intriguing, taking many unexpected twists and turns. The story focuses around John Daniels educating Lee Fenton, the man who is in prison for murdering his daughter. The play explores their relationship over the course of three of their sessions. The first set in 2008, the second in 2012 and the final one in 2016.
When we first meet Lee Fenton, played by Ryan Gage, he is portrayed as a murderer who does not have a care in the world. From this point onwards it was fascinating to watch Ryan explore Lee's many layers until the character was almost unrecognisable. Ryan demonstrates tremendous versatility in this complex role.
While a political thriller may not be for everyone, Richard Vergette's play is quite extraordinary. American justice is only 75 minutes long but during the play eight years pass so you leave the Arts Theatre feeling like you have been on quite a journey! Some moments are slightly slow and drawn out, but the climax had me sitting on the edge of my seat. While many questions are eventually answered, others remain unanswered which left the audience buzzing.
With a story full of surprises and a superb cast, American Justice is not to be missed.
American Justice runs at the Arts Theatre until 9th February 2013. Please visit www.americanjusticetheplay.com for more information and to book tickets.
Andrew Tomlins (Editor)
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