Kevin Spacey Channels Clarence Darrow in Solo Play
(© Matthew Murphy)
Kevin Spacey's acclaimed solo show, Clarence Darrow, played its first of two performances last night, Thursday, June 15. Written by David W. Rintels and directed by Thea Sharrock, the production will complete its run with tonight's performance at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
(© Matthew Murphy)
At the turn of the last century, Clarence Darrow was a lawyer who steadfastly accepted cases nobody would take, fighting on behalf of the underdog and standing up for labor unions as well as being a staunch opponent of the death penalty during a career that spanned over 40 years. Through his dignity, intelligence, and logic, he often managed to convince judges and jurors to change their view, shift their prejudice, and opt for a humane punishment on behalf of those he defended. Spacey brings Darrow to life over the course of 90 minutes.
(© Matthew Murphy)
"Clarence Darrow was one of the most important attorneys in the United States, and I just love the idea of Darrow and Arthur Ashe coming together: both masters of two very different courts," said Spacey in a statement. "Of course, drama happens all the time on Ashe, but never quite like this. I love a new challenge, and this is an exciting opportunity to share Darrow's remarkable story with a broader and more diverse audience than usually gets a chance to see theater."
(© Matthew Murphy)
Spacey is a 1991 Tony winner for his performance in Lost in Yonkers. Additionally, he has been seen on Broadway in A Moon for the Misbegotten, The Iceman Cometh, and Long Day's Journey Into Night, among other shows. He served as the artistic director of London's Old Vic Theatre from 2004-15. An Oscar winner for American Beauty and The Usual Suspects, he currently stars in the hit Netflix series House of Cards, where he also serves as executive producer.
