The play is full of irony and a dark humor that is sometimes too dark to laugh at. But it is this irony that gives the play its depth and life force. Kaczynski’s references to “wild nature” in his published manifesto materialize into the ironic character Wild Nature played by Celia Shuman. Other main characters include Kaczynski’s mother (Anne Darragh), brother (Mark Rafael Truitt) and some of his victims that survived their explosive encounter with Kaczynski (Merle Kessler).

There is nothing sympathetic about any of the characters. Carter portrays them all in a harsh light. The mother tries to point out all the good things in her son’s character that only she can see.

Perhaps the only sympathetic character in this no schmaltz play is Kaczynski’s brother. After reading the Unabomber’s manifesto in the paper, he recognized his brother’s writing style and alerted police. Riddled by the dual guilt of unknowingly sending his brother money for many years – money Ted Kaczynski probably spent on bomb making materials – and for ratting on his own brother, we can’t help but wonder what it would be like to be in his position.

Those of you familiar with Carter’s successful play Hilary and Soon-Yi Shop for Ties will recognize a similar satire in her current production, but this one’s cut on a darker edge. Perhaps the characters that survived one of Kaczynski’s bombs reveal the greatest insights in this play. Their comments, on their painful rehabilitation from the wounds they suffered from one man’s selfish violence, makes a powerful statement against all terrorist acts.

For tickets or more information on this excellent production call (415) 441-8822 or visit www.magictheatre.org.

Current / Touring / Archives / Links / Film / Video / Links / Home