Overview | Robert Icke's "The Doctor"

Summary

In the adaptation of Arthur Schnitzler's 1912 play 'Professor Bernhardi,' titled 'The Doctor,' the creator explores contemporary identity's complexity, moving beyond simple binaries to encompass diverse identities influenced by gender, race, and professional roles. The play interrogates how identity affects medicine, scandal, and self-perception in a fragmented world. It also examines themes of leadership, questioning societal expectations of leaders. A key focus is on showcasing Juliet Stevenson’s talents in a significant role, with an emphasis on delivering a fresh and immediate performance for New York audiences eager to see her return to the stage.

Takeaways

• 🎭 'The Doctor' is an adaptation of Arthur Schnitzler's 1912 play 'Professor Bernhardi.'
• 📅 The new play was first performed in 2019, transforming the original context.
• 🔍 The original play addresses identity tensions between Catholicism and Judaism, as well as medicine and faith.
• 🌍 The adaptation reflects the complexity of modern identity, emphasizing its plural and fragmented nature.
• ❓ It raises questions about how identity influences medicine, crises, and self-explanation.
• 🌈 The themes of the play extend beyond religion to include gender and racial politics.
• 👩‍💼 The script explores the nature of leadership and the expectations placed on leaders.
• ⭐ The play serves as a platform for the talents of Juliet Stevenson, aiming to showcase her in a significant role.
• 💪 Juliet Stevenson is deeply involved in making the performance feel immediate and relevant.
• 🎟️ The production aims to reintroduce Juliet Stevenson to New York theatergoers after a long absence.

Q & A

What is the source material for 'The Doctor'?

'The Doctor' is adapted from Arthur Schnitzler's play 'Professor Bernhardi,' which was originally written around 1912.

What key themes does 'The Doctor' explore?

The play explores themes of identity, the tensions between medicine and faith, and the complexities of modern identity beyond simple binaries.

How does the adaptation address identity?

The adaptation recognizes that identity is now more plural and fragmented, incorporating various aspects like professional roles, religious beliefs, gender politics, and race.

What questions does the play raise about identity?

The play questions how identity impacts medicine, explains crises, and helps individuals make sense of themselves in complex situations.

What role does leadership play in 'The Doctor'?

Leadership is a significant theme, with the play exploring what it means to lead and the different expectations people have of leaders.

Why is Juliet Stevenson a central figure in this adaptation?

Juliet Stevenson is central because the play is designed to showcase her talents in a substantial lead role, allowing for a powerful performance.

What does the playwright hope to achieve with this adaptation?

The playwright aims to create a fresh and immediate theatrical experience that interrogates the themes of the play and highlights the lead actress's performance.

What specific identity tensions are discussed in the original play?

The original play primarily focuses on the tensions between Catholicism and Judaism as well as the conflict between medical ethics and faith.

How does the adaptation reflect contemporary society?

The adaptation reflects contemporary society by acknowledging the diversity of identities and the complex social dynamics that influence personal and professional interactions.

What does the playwright believe about New York theatergoers' reception of the play?

The playwright believes that New York theatergoers will be pleased to see Juliet Stevenson on stage again and will appreciate the depth and immediacy of her performance.