The Whipping Man

New Jewish Theatre

Director Doug Finlayson has orchestrated a show with pacing as rhythmic as a symphony and at times, as pounding as a drum corps. All together - the performers, director, and techincal staff - have created a show that works on all levels. ALIVE ST. LOUIS

The significance of the title is revealed in graphic detail, in fact, much of the play is graphic if you're squeamish, but director Doug Finlayson has created a literate, cohesive production wherein the only weakness is the danger of it slipping into melodrama. Despite some elements of the Civil War story that is told from a Southern perspective (See ‘Gone With the Wind,' for example), he never lets the play go there, despite conventions like star-crossed lovers, a dying way of life, and the depiction and destruction of a whole economy based on a system that trades in human beings. The actors are generally restrained, which makes their explosive moments more profound. TALKING BROADWAY

Under the direction of Doug Finlayson, the play, which covers just 48 hours, moves quickly from crisis to crisis, spurred by outside events and family secrets. All the actors turn in fine work, particulary Davis. ST. LOUIS POST DISPATCH

Director Doug Finlayson does a fine job drawing intense and believable performances from his talented team of actors. BROADWAYWORLD.COM