In the world of Irish theatre, few figures are as enigmatic and underappreciated as Dion Boucicault. Once hailed as a 'genius' by Aaron Monaghan, Boucicault's legacy has been overshadowed by the rise of realism and the changing tastes of audiences. Yet, his work, particularly 'The Shaughraun', holds a surprising amount of relevance and intrigue, especially when viewed through the lens of modern Irish theatre. This article delves into why Druid Theatre Company's decision to stage 'The Shaughraun' is not just a historical curiosity, but a profound exploration of Boucicault's enduring influence and the evolution of Irish drama.
The Legacy of Boucicault
Boucicault's reputation has suffered a rapid decline after his death in 1890. The New York Times once praised him as a 'conspicuous dramatist', but his elaborate plots, heightened emotions, and larger-than-life Irish characters soon seemed old-fashioned. This shift towards realism and psychological drama left Boucicault's work in the dust, and his reputation never quite recovered. However, as Garry Hynes, the artistic director of Druid Theatre Company, argues, Boucicault's influence is deeply embedded in modern Irish theatre.
The Shaughraun: A Melodrama Rediscovered
Druid's decision to stage 'The Shaughraun' is intriguing, given the play's perceived obsolescence. However, Hynes argues that the play cannot be treated as modern psychological realism. Melodrama, with its codified rules and rhythms, is a form that Boucicault mastered. Ignoring these rules would result in a play that falls apart. This balancing act between respecting the roots of the old form and connecting with contemporary audiences is a challenge that Hynes embraces.
The Relevance of Boucicault's Politics
Monaghan's reassessment of Boucicault's genius stems from a closer look at the playwright's politics. Boucicault's heroes are not the quintessential heroes standing on a rock with the wind blowing in their hair, but ordinary people who outwit the establishment. This is particularly evident in 'The Shaughraun', where the rogues and vagabonds are the true heroes, moving between the cracks of things and undoing the villain's plot. This subversion of stereotypes is a testament to Boucicault's political acumen.
The Visual Language of The Shaughraun
The visual language of the production is another fascinating aspect. The use of a 19th-century Ordnance Survey map of Ireland as the central set piece is a powerful image that links Boucicault's west of Ireland with Eugene O'Neill's United States. This map, celebrated as a triumph of cartography, was also an instrument of colonial administration, adding a layer of complexity to the production.
The Emotional Reality of Boucicault's Characters
The challenge for the cast is to find the emotional reality to ground Boucicault's over-the-top script. Rather than treating the play as camp, the cast has approached the material with complete seriousness. This approach allows the audience to have an actual emotional response, rather than being embarrassed by the heightened emotion.
Boucicault's Influence on Modern Irish Theatre
Boucicault's influence is evident in almost every big Irish playwright who followed, from Beckett to Synge to O'Casey. His understanding of what works in performance, gained from his own experience on stage, is embedded in the text. This influence echoes down through the ages, making Boucicault a key figure in the evolution of Irish drama.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Druid Theatre Company's decision to stage 'The Shaughraun' is not just a nod to the past, but a profound exploration of Boucicault's enduring influence and the evolution of Irish drama. By pairing the play with Eugene O'Neill's 'Moon for the Misbegotten', Druid is inviting audiences to reconsider Boucicault's legacy, his politics, and the extent to which his work continues to resonate in modern Irish theatre.
