The Washington area is blessed by the presence of many superlative theatrical troupes. Among these companies, two stand out for the consistent quality of their work: Synetic Theater (whose next show, “Animal Farm,” opens next week) and the Keegan Theatre, who are currently presenting a revival of Robert Bolt’s award-winning 1960 historical drama “A Man for All Seasons.”
One of the main reasons for Keegan’s artistic merit is that they boast just about the best repertory of acting talent in town. Several of their regulars turn up in “A Man for All Seasons,” including Tim Lynch, Kevin Adams, Charlotte Akin, Carlos Bustamante, Robert Leembruggen and Mark Rhea. (The direction is in the capable hands of Rhea’s better half, Susan Marie Rhea.)
Set in the early 16th century, “A Man for All Seasons” tells the true story of Sir Thomas More (Lynch), who, as chancellor of England, found himself in the unenviable position of having to give his approval to the plan of King Henry VIII (Jon Townson) to divorce Queen Catherine and marry Anne Boleyn in his quest for a male heir.
Resolved to remain true to his principles, More tries to stay mum on the subject by resigning his post, but Henry is determined to cover all the bases, so he allows his chief minister, Thomas Cromwell (Rhea), to have More tried and sentenced to death on a false charge of treason. To add insult to injury, More’s frame-up is made possible by the perfidy of sycophant weasel and former friend Richard Rich (Bustamante).
Bolt’s script prevents the subject matter from becoming too weighty by keeping the dialogue sharp and clever, and having the story narrated by a comic figure called the Common Man (Leembruggen), who addresses the audience directly and assumes several minor parts.
In order for the play to work, it is crucial for the actor playing More to avoid any hint of sanctimony. Fortunately, Lynch’s performance is a tour de force that succeeds in making the character believably flawed, sympathetic and all too human. He is provided with outstanding support by the rest of the cast.
For almost a decade, Keegan has been a local gem providing audiences with first-rate productions of classic and modern theater at minimal prices.
“A Man for All Seasons” is Keegan at its best.
If you go
The Keegan Theatre’s production of “A Man for All Seasons” runs through May 12
» Venue: Church Street Theater, 1742 Church St. NW, Washington
» Performances: 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays
» Tickets: $20 to $25
» More info: 703-892-0202 or www.keegantheatre.com
