In the 1970s and ’80s, Sam Shepard stood out as a bold voice in American theater. He mingled with punk legend Patti Smith, traveled with Bob Dylan, and even received an Oscar nomination for his role as Chuck Yeager in “The Right Stuff.” Shepard’s plays, known for their dark humor and complexity, often delve into the messiness of American life, blending realism and absurdity.
Now, you can experience his unique style at the Westwego Performing Arts Center with the play “True West.” Directed by Bennett Kirschner of Intramural Theater fame, this production revolves around two brothers on a path of self-destruction.
The story kicks off with Austin, a struggling screenwriter, working away in their mother’s home while she vacation in Alaska. Austin hopes to break into Hollywood but is soon interrupted by his older brother Lee, a drifter recently back from the Mojave Desert. Their reunion is anything but warm; it quickly spirals into a fierce rivalry fueled by insults and frustrations.
Topher Johnson plays Austin, presenting a timid character, dressed in a collared shirt and glasses. He knows Lee’s volatility but clings to the hope of finishing his script. Philip Yiannopoulos, as Lee, brings chaos and unpredictability, feeding on Austin’s weaknesses to gain leverage over him.
The two brothers, while seemingly opposite, are eerily similar. Their differences set the stage, but there’s a missed chance to explore the shared vulnerabilities that drive their conflict. The dynamic stays one-sided; Austin remains subdued, while Lee never shows true vulnerability. This lack of depth in their relationship keeps the play from fully capturing the complexity of sibling rivalry.
Although primarily focused on the brothers, the production also features strong supporting roles. Joshua Tierney plays a slick Hollywood agent caught in their drama, while Deb Margolin, portraying their mother, delivers a surprising moment that changes everything.
The set design by Olivia Winter, along with sound by Jules Granger, brilliantly conveys a sense of unease. The kitchen setting feels familiar yet uncomfortable, with the sounds of crickets and distant coyotes adding to the atmosphere.
“True West” doesn’t offer simple answers about family conflicts. Instead, it encourages the audience to reflect on the complexities of brotherhood and the choices that lead to estrangement.
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