Arthur Miller’s The American Clock is centred around a once wealthy family who’s road to economic downfall leads them into a dismal state. Set in 1930s America, during the time of The Great Depression, the play gives an insight into how different classes and minorities were challenged by such a sorrowful fate.
Director, Rachel Chakvin made the decision to have the Baume family played by three groups of people, ranging from a white Jewish family to an African American family, emphasising the diverse nature of American society. The play itself is stocked with many poignant portrayals of the havoc that wreaked in America during a severe economic crash. From the seemingly charming yet gruelling dance sequences depicted through the use of a ‘dance marathon’.To the farm revolts and bank closure by the unyielding authorities, as well as the entertaining tap dance performance. This play captured the fluctuating psychological states of the American people.
Performed at the Old Vic, this three-hour long semi-autobiographical play requires much of your time and attention. Unnecessarily long for some, the vivid portrayal just doesn't seem to validate the lengthy ponderous storyline. Although the idea is there, and the execution of it is faultless, which is accredited to the actors. The play still remains slightly mundane. The story only starts to pick up pace during the middle and near the end of the production.
Although the choice to put a multi-cultural twist to the casting may seem like a good choice, it instead added a sense of confusion to the already fragmented storyline. It is worth a watch for those who have the time and energy to watch political play, but if you don’t fit into this criteria then it would be advisable to spend your money elsewhere.
