“Underdog: The Other Other Brontë,” a play by Sarah Gordon, takes center stage, offering a fresh perspective on the lives of the famed Brontë sisters. While Charlotte and Emily Brontë are household names thanks to classics like “Jane Eyre” and “Wuthering Heights,” Anne, the youngest sibling, often gets overshadowed. This comedic play dives into their world, exploring themes of ambition, sibling rivalry, and the challenges women faced in the Victorian literary landscape.
A Story Told Through Charlotte’s (Often Unreliable) Lens
The play unfolds from the perspective of Charlotte Brontë, played with relish by Gemma Whelan. Charlotte, as portrayed here, is a complex figure – fiercely ambitious, insecure, and prone to hilarious outbursts. Whelan’s performance is a highlight, capturing Charlotte’s swagger and vulnerability in equal measure.
The narrative revolves around the sisters’ early attempts at getting their novels published. Rejection stings, and Charlotte’s paranoia takes center stage. She’s convinced the literary establishment is conspiring against them, particularly the “braying nincompoops” (as some reviewers described them) who control publishing houses.
This comedic take on the Brontës’ struggles is a refreshing change from more traditional portrayals. While the humor is undeniable, it doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of their situation. Being female writers in a male-dominated field presented significant obstacles, and the play doesn’t sugarcoat these challenges.
A Celebration (and Gentle Roasting) of the Brontë Legacy
While Charlotte takes center stage, her sisters, Emily and Anne, are far from passive participants. Rhiannon Clements portrays Anne as endearing and kind, a stark contrast to Charlotte’s sharp edges. The dynamic between the sisters is a highlight, showcasing their love and support for each other amidst the pressures of literary ambition.
However, the play doesn’t shy away from poking fun at the Brontë mystique. There are playful digs at their isolation on the Yorkshire moors, their somewhat unconventional family dynamic, and even a jab at Jane Austen’s prominent position on British currency.
This affectionate teasing adds another layer to the play. It reminds us that the Brontës, despite their literary genius, were also real people with quirks and flaws.
Is Anne Truly the Underdog?
The title, “Underdog: The Other Other Brontë,” positions Anne as the overlooked sister. While the play explores her struggles with getting published, some reviewers felt the script didn’t delve deeply enough into Anne’s character. In contrast, Emily, the enigmatic author of “Wuthering Heights,” receives even less focus.
This focus on Charlotte, while entertaining, might leave audiences wanting to know more about the other sisters. However, it’s important to remember that the play is a comedic exploration, not a historical documentary. The aim is to entertain and spark conversation, and in that respect, it succeeds.
Laughter and Reflection: A Play That Makes You Think
Despite the comedic elements, “Underdog” doesn’t shy away from poignant moments. The play explores the complex emotions that come with sibling rivalry, particularly when ambition and insecurity are in the mix.
Charlotte’s frustration with Anne’s perceived lack of drive, coupled with her own anxieties about success, creates moments of genuine tenderness.
Ultimately, the play leaves you with a deeper appreciation for the Brontës’ work and the challenges they faced. It’s a hilarious and thought-provoking exploration of sisterhood, ambition, and the enduring power of literature.
So, Should You See It?
Reviews for “Underdog: The Other Other Brontë” have been generally positive. While some criticize the uneven focus on the three sisters, most agree that the play is a thoroughly entertaining experience. The witty dialogue, strong performances, and fresh take on the Brontës’ story make it a worthwhile watch.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide:
Pros:
Hilarious and witty script
Strong performances, particularly by Gemma Whelan as Charlotte
Fresh perspective on the Brontë sisters
Explores themes of sibling rivalry, ambition, and the challenges faced by women writers
Cons:
Uneven focus on the three Brontë sisters, with Anne and Emily receiving less attention
Humor might overshadow the play’s more serious themes for some viewers
FAQ’S
Is “Underdog: The Other Other Brontë” a play or a book?
“Underdog: The Other Other Brontë” is a stage play written by Sarah Gordon. It explores the lives and literary ambitions of the Brontë sisters, particularly focusing on Anne, the lesser-known sibling.
What’s the story about?
The play centers on Charlotte Brontë, the eldest and most commercially successful sister. We see the story unfold through her perspective, filled with anxieties about her own writing and a touch of jealousy towards Anne’s work. Rejection from publishers fuels Charlotte’s insecurities, especially when Anne’s novel seems to gain traction. The play explores the complex dynamics between the sisters, their shared dreams of literary recognition, and the challenges they face in a patriarchal society.
Is it funny?
Yes! Reviews consistently praise the play’s humor. Gordon injects witty dialogue and cleverly blends Victorian hardship with modern-day references, making the Brontës relatable to a contemporary audience.
Who are the main characters?
Charlotte Brontë (played by Gemma Whelan): The ambitious and often blunt eldest sister, wrestling with self-doubt and a competitive streak.
Anne Brontë (played by Rhiannon Clements): The middle sister, known for her gentler nature and social conscience. The play explores the potential of her overshadowed literary talent.
Emily Brontë (played by Adele James): The enigmatic and creative youngest sister, author of the iconic “Wuthering Heights.” While present, the play delves less deeply into her character compared to the others.
Is it historically accurate?
While the play takes inspiration from the Brontës’ lives, it prioritizes entertainment over strict historical accuracy. It takes creative liberties with events and injects a healthy dose of humor. However, the play does capture the essence of their struggles as women writers in the 19th century.
What are some of the criticisms of the play?
Some reviewers felt the play got a little too carried away with its humor, potentially overshadowing the deeper themes of sisterhood and artistic ambition. Additionally, some felt Emily Brontë’s character deserved more focus.
So, is it worth watching?
Reviews suggest “Underdog” is a thoroughly entertaining play. It sheds light on Anne Brontë, often overshadowed by her sisters, and offers a fresh perspective on the Brontë family dynamic. Expect laughs, some poignant moments, and perhaps a newfound interest in exploring Anne Brontë’s novels.
Where can I find out more about the Brontë sisters?
The Brontë Parsonage Museum offers a wealth of information about the lives and works of the sisters.
The Brontë Society is a great resource for all things Brontë.
Numerous biographies and fictional works explore the Brontës’ lives, offering deeper dives into their fascinating story.
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