Overview of "Burn This"
"Burn This" is set in New York City and revolves around the aftermath of a tragic event—the death of a young dancer named Robbie. The play primarily focuses on the relationships between the main characters as they navigate their grief, desire, and insecurities. The story unfolds over the course of a few days and invites the audience to witness the complex dynamics that emerge in the face of loss.
Plot Summary
At the heart of "Burn This" are five main characters:
1. Anna - A contemporary dancer grappling with her feelings for Robbie and the impact of his death.
2. Pale - Robbie's older brother, a brash and unpredictable figure who disrupts Anna's life after Robbie's funeral.
3. Larry - Anna's roommate and a struggling writer, who provides comic relief while also embodying the existential angst of the characters.
4. Judy - A friend of Anna's, who offers a contrasting perspective on relationships and life.
5. Robbie - Although he is deceased, his presence looms large throughout the play, influencing the actions and emotions of the other characters.
The play opens with Anna and Larry discussing the recent death of Robbie, setting the stage for the exploration of their grief. Pale's arrival marks a turning point, as he brings chaos and intensity into Anna's life. As Anna and Pale's attraction grows, the play delves into themes of passion, identity, and the struggle to move forward in the face of loss.
Themes in "Burn This"
"Burn This" is rich with themes that resonate deeply with audiences. Some of the most prominent include:
- Grief and Loss: The pain of losing a loved one permeates the play, shaping the characters' interactions and choices.
- Desire and Passion: The intense attraction between Anna and Pale serves as a focal point, highlighting the complexities of desire and its relationship to loss.
- Identity and Self-Discovery: Each character grapples with their own sense of identity, particularly as they confront their feelings about Robbie and their futures.
- Art and Expression: The world of dance and writing serves as a backdrop for the characters' emotional journeys, emphasizing the importance of artistic expression in coping with life's challenges.
Character Analysis
Understanding the characters in "Burn This" is crucial to appreciating the play's depth. Each character brings a unique perspective that enhances the narrative.
Anna
Anna is a complex character who embodies the struggle between grief and the desire for connection. As a dancer, she is passionate and driven, yet she also feels lost after Robbie's death. Her relationship with Pale forces her to confront her feelings and reevaluate her life choices. Anna's evolution throughout the play reflects the universal journey of coping with loss and seeking love.
Pale
Pale is a force of nature, characterized by his raw energy and emotional volatility. He represents the chaotic side of human nature, and his interactions with Anna reveal both vulnerability and aggression. Pale's struggle to process his brother's death and his subsequent attraction to Anna create tension that drives the narrative forward.
Larry
Larry serves as both a friend and a foil to Anna. His witty observations and existential musings provide insight into the struggles of young artists in New York. Through Larry, Wilson explores themes of ambition, insecurity, and the search for meaning in a world often filled with pain.
Robbie
Though Robbie never appears on stage, his presence is deeply felt throughout the play. He symbolizes the fragility of life and the impact of loss on those left behind. The characters’ varying responses to Robbie’s death highlight their individual coping mechanisms and the ways in which grief can shape relationships.
Production History and Impact
"Burn This" premiered Off-Broadway at the Playwrights Horizons in 1987 and quickly garnered critical acclaim. The original production featured a talented cast, including John Malkovich as Pale and Joan Allen as Anna. The play's success led to a Broadway run in 1988, further solidifying its place in American theater.
The impact of "Burn This" extends beyond its initial production. The play has been revived multiple times, each interpretation bringing new perspectives to Wilson's work. Notably, a 2019 Broadway revival featured Adam Driver as Pale and Keri Russell as Anna, sparking renewed interest in Wilson's writing and themes.
Why "Burn This" Remains Relevant
In an ever-changing cultural landscape, "Burn This" retains its relevance for several reasons:
- Universal Themes: The exploration of grief, love, and identity is timeless, resonating with audiences across generations.
- Complex Characters: Wilson's characters are intricately drawn, allowing for a rich exploration of human emotions and relationships.
- Artistic Expression: The play emphasizes the importance of art as a means of coping with life's challenges, a theme that continues to resonate with artists and audiences alike.
Conclusion
In summary, the script Burn This Lanford Wilson is a powerful exploration of the human experience, marked by its intricate character dynamics and universal themes. As audiences continue to engage with the play, it serves as a reminder of the enduring power of theater to reflect our lives, confront our fears, and celebrate our connections. Whether experienced in its original form or through modern revivals, "Burn This" remains a vital piece of American theater that invites us to confront the complexities of love, loss, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of 'Burn This' by Lanford Wilson?
The main theme of 'Burn This' revolves around love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. It explores how personal trauma can affect connections with others.
Who are the main characters in 'Burn This'?
'Burn This' features five primary characters: Anna, a choreographer; Larry, her gay roommate; Burton, Anna's boyfriend; Pale, the passionate brother of Anna's deceased lover; and the ghost of Robbie, Anna's former partner.
What is the significance of the title 'Burn This'?
The title 'Burn This' symbolizes the need to let go of the past and the emotional baggage it carries. It reflects the characters' struggles to confront their grief and move forward.
When was 'Burn This' first performed?
'Burn This' was first performed in 1987 at the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles, and it later premiered in New York City in 1988.
What awards has 'Burn This' received?
'Burn This' received critical acclaim and was nominated for several awards, including the Tony Award for Best Play and the New York Drama Critics' Circle Award.
How does Lanford Wilson use dialogue in 'Burn This'?
Lanford Wilson uses sharp, witty dialogue in 'Burn This' to convey the characters' emotional states and bring depth to their interactions, effectively capturing the complexities of their relationships.
What impact has 'Burn This' had on contemporary theatre?
'Burn This' has had a significant impact on contemporary theatre by addressing themes of sexuality, grief, and identity, paving the way for more inclusive narratives in American drama.
