Elizabeth Moir takes on All My Sons; a play that resonates in today’s global context
View(s):By Kavya Kadurugamuwa
A story about family, sacrifice, and moral dilemmas will unfold as the Elizabeth Moir Senior School production of All My Sons by Arthur Miller goes on the boards at the Lionel Wendt Theatre on February 21 and 22.
Director Tasmin Anthonisz says the play is particularly significant as it resonates deeply with current global issues, offering a poignant exploration of moral accountability and the devastating ripple effects of war.
All My Sons, takes place in the years following the World War II. Businessman Joe Keller is held accountable for selling defective aircraft parts to the military, which results in the deaths of young men, including his own son Larry. When Chris, Joe’s surviving son, gets home from the war, he learns the awful truth.
Director Tasmin Anthonisz and the cast at rehearsals. Pix by Akila Jayawardena
Tasmin remarks that the play’s examination of moral quandaries and the results of human behaviour is ageless. “The world Keller has built is hinged on a lie, layered so deeply it spreads from the personal to the familial, communal, and societal. The reality of who he is, versus the narrative he’s created, causes immense emotional damage to his wife and surviving son. His wife’s severe cognitive dissonance manifests as physical pain she calls ‘more than a headache.’
The cast and crew are deep in rehearsals as the opening night approaches. Rajindu Normanbhoy, playing the role of Joe Keller, speaks of the complexity of his character, who is at the heart of the play’s moral conflict. “It really makes you think, there are multiple sides to everything that goes on.”
“Joe has built a very strong lie around himself his entire life, his relationship with everyone in the play, is based on the lie he’s created for himself.
Kate Keller, a character as central to the play as Joe, is portrayed by Savani Gamage, “It’s her views that kind of pivot the story… she’s the only one who’s still hung on the past while everyone is moving forward… she’s going through so much.”
Avlok Wignaraja, who plays Chris Keller, appreciates the message of this play, highlighting the importance of accountability: “It’s a very telling play.”
“I like having a small cast… you get to build really close relationships with people,” Avlok adds.
Ariyana Fernando, playing Ann Deever, describes her character as “a very strong-willed, complex person,” who navigates emotional baggage while striving for a better family dynamic. The role of George Deever is played by Dihein Perera who appreciates the righteousness and commitment to truth that George embodies. He is “a catalyst for all of the events in the play”.
For Vidul Kumarawadu, who plays Franc Lubey, says the school production, has been fun and he is “looking forward to how everything will come together”.
Darya Handunnetti, playing the role of Lydia Lubey, describes her character as “bubbly” and “family-oriented”. Of her own acting journey, she admits, “I thought acting was easy until I actually had to do it… it’s hard to define the line between where I end and Lydia starts.”
Notes Bhaanujan Uthaiyashankar, who plays Dr. Jim Bayliss, “This is a very deep and touching play… It portrays some of the real-life experiences that people go through.” The play’s themes would resonate with many, particularly the older generation, he feels.
Clementina Deane, who plays Sue Bayliss, enjoys the challenge of portraying a villainous character. “Sue is the most openly unlikable character,” she notes, appreciating the complexity. “When you’re playing someone who is villainous, it’s much more interesting… you have so much more to work off of.”
Director Tasmin thinks the audience will remember this performance because it highlights the role that everyone of us has in influencing the world.
Drawing a clear parallel to Keller’s character and his actions in the play, she highlights the value of empathy and humanity over external success or charm.
Tickets will be sold at the
Elizabeth Moir Senior School from February 13
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