In an adaptation of Franz Kafka’s short story, Report to An Academy depicts the sombre tale of an intelligent ape transported to a European zoo
This one-man provocative drama tells the story of Red Peter, an intelligent ape that was captured in West Africa for use in a European zoo. On board the ship steering from Africa to Europe, Red Peter is subject to a torrent of abuse by the ship’s workers. Soon, Peter learns that his only means of his survival is to imitate his human counterparts. The more human he becomes, the better he is treated. Performed as a report to a scientific academy, this speech details a harrowing account of torment and abuse. It speaks to the cruetly of mankind with deft touch and a markedly sharp point of view.
Report to an Academy was adapted and directed by renowned German director Gabriele Jakobi. Jakobi does an excellent job creating a truly theatrical experience without sacrificing the piece’s narrative origins. Allowing a diversity of space on the stage, with three distinct areas wherein the action takes place, Jakobi ensures we as the audience are at no point bored or unstimulated.
This is heightened by the performance of American actor and director Robert McNamara, who plays Red Peter, the production’s sole character. McNamara’s performance was commendable, complimented by a remarkable movement style. This physical element of the piece was the highlight of McNamara’s performance. Every movement, from the way the cane hit the ground to the manner with which McNamara held the chair upon which he lent, was exacting, almost sharp in nature. It created the true illusion of an ape who has learned to imitate physicality from humans out of pure necessity. It felt almost unnatural, as it would if an ape really were to learn how to move as a human.
Report to An Academy is on at Courtyard Theatre this Camden Fringe until August 6th. Having run at a multitude at other festivals prior to now, it is well worth the watch.