Impactful Storytelling
Seidler’s play is based on a true story, and Wilson’s production, in this reviewer’s opinion, skillfully personalizes that grand history with a very human portrayal of the monarch. He creates a character to whom you may very well find yourself relating and sympathizing – particularly in the presentation of the relationship between Logue and Bertie.
In one of Bertie’s later speeches, we are yet again met with this image of him taking the microphone in fear. The tension can be felt from the back of the house as he struggles to make his way through the words – with all of the pressure his family is forcing upon him. Slowly we see him turn to Logue, and through that eye contact and connection, a small sense of confidence washes over. The moment is quick, but effective, and so much is told through the silence that the two characters share. The two may be surrounded by family and palace staff, but for this instant, only the two of them matter. Hadden-Paton’s performance has the feel of a brutal sense of honesty, and the chemistry with Frain helps a heartwarming friendship take the stage – one for which you too, like this writer, might just find yourself rooting as the story unfolds. Bertie is not just a king, but also a human with very real fears and insecurities. He offers an example that demonstrates how sometimes the most powerful action we can take is to ask for help – a lesson that many often forget.
Full of heart and honesty, The King’s Speech is a moving adaptation that carries this historical tale immediately into today. Whether you are a fanatic for British history or one who simply enjoys a touching story, Seidler's play has a little something for everyone.
Lauren Katz is a freelance director and dramaturge, and new to the Chicago Theatre Scene. She recently moved from Washington DC, where she worked with Mosaic Theater Company of DC in Company Management, as well as directed around town with various theaters.