'Hogs' proves to be drama, comedy

PURE Theatre presented the world premiere of "Hogs," an adaptation of Henrik Ibsen's "An Enemy of the People," with its still valid criticisms of uncompromising ego, disingenuous small town values and political irrationality.

Ibsen, who was one of the fathers of modern drama, provided food for thought in his 1882 play, which playwright and director Rodney Lee Rogers has updated and set in the Lowcountry. Ibsen wrote that he was not sure whether he wrote a comedy or a drama.

Rogers' adaptation provides both.

PURE Theatre productions are universally excellent, and this performance was no exception. Leading the cast was Sharon Graci as Dr. Mara Stockman-Kelly (a gender switch from the Ibsen original), with an in-depth characterization of the determined lead.

Sullivan Graci-Hamilton was realistically convincing as the doctor's daughter, and Rogers believably created the doctor's husband.

Paul Whitty made the part of the doctor's brother and hot-headed town mayor seethe with reckless emotion. Jimmy Ward nailed the hypocrisy of the doctor's father-in-law. Kara O'Neil, Chad Layman and Will Hodges rounded out the small cast with vivid portrayals.

The play continues through April 4 at Upper Lance Hall, 150 Meeting St. Highly recommended.

Visit puretheatre.org for show dates and times.