The Grace of Middletown

“Middletown” Analysis

I was lucky enough to be able to usher “Middletown” during it's entire run. I was able, on some days, to watch the show. I saw it twice and was very observant of everyones movement on the stage.

At the top of the show, the Mechanic enters from vom left and sat at a bench on stage right. The Cop enters and they have a verbal argument for a while before the Cop attacks the Mechanic. I noticed that the Cop was holding the baton just in front of the Mechanic’s throat. The Mechanic had both hands on the baton protecting his throat. The Mechanic has complete control of the Cop and the baton. The Cop releases the Mechanic and the Mechanic then rolls of the bench and does a controlled front fall to he ground. This was a very exciting way to begin the show.

I noticed, throughout the play, that Mary Swanson had a floating quality to her walk. She would take gentle steps and her chin faced upwards, giving her a lifted look. On the other hand, John had a more potent quality to him. He stumped a little which gave him a heavy quality. His steps were heavy and he moved vertically a lot.

Near the end of the show, the entire cast enters the stage and do a Native American dance. I do not know how authentic it was, but I am no expert. Everyone moved in sync; keeping each other in their view. They had a potent energy as they danced and stomped the floor.

 I really enjoyed “Middletown” and was honored to be a part of it. Once again, Metro had proven itself a very good school.