weatherontheair.com – “Arsonic and Old Lace” is a three-act, farcical dark comedy written by American playwright Joseph Kesselring. First performed on Broadway in 1941, the play quickly became one of the longest-running and most popular productions of its time, enjoying a successful three-year run35. The play’s blend of humor, horror, and social commentary has made it a timeless classic, continuing to captivate audiences with its unique blend of comedy and tragedy.
Plot Overview
The story revolves around the Brewster family, a group of eccentric and well-meaning but misguided individuals living in a New York City house. The matriarch, Abby Brewster, and her sister, Martha, have a secret: they have been poisoning lonely old men with elderberry wine laced with arsenic and burying them in the basement. Their nephew, Mortimer, is a socially awkward librarian who is about to marry a wealthy heiress, which causes a rift with his brother, Teddy, a World War I veteran suffering from shell shock who believes he is Teddy Roosevelt.
The plot thickens when Mortimer’s other brother, Jonathan, returns home after a long absence, only to discover the family’s dark secret. Jonathan, a failed inventor, is pursued by the police for a series of murders he did not commit. The ensuing chaos, as the family tries to cover up their crimes and deal with the unexpected arrival of Jonathan’s fiancée, Eleanor, creates a series of hilarious and absurd situations.
Themes and Symbolism
Dark Comedy and Social Commentary
“Arsonic and Old Lace” is a masterclass in dark comedy, using humor to explore serious themes such as mental health, family dynamics, and the absurdity of societal norms. The play’s dark humor serves as a vehicle for social commentary, highlighting the eccentricities and hypocrisies of the characters and their society.
Family Dynamics and Dysfunction
The Brewster family is a microcosm of dysfunction, with each member struggling with their own personal demons and societal expectations. The play delves into the complexities of family relationships, showcasing the love, frustration, and ultimate acceptance that binds them together despite their flaws.
The Absurdity of Life
Kesselring’s use of farce and absurd situations underscores the play’s exploration of the absurdity of life. The characters’ attempts to maintain their sanity and uphold their social facade in the face of their own madness and the chaos around them reflect the human condition’s inherent absurdity.
Critical Reception
“Arsonic and Old Lace” received widespread acclaim upon its debut and has since been recognized as one of Broadway’s most successful comedies. Critics praised Kesselring’s ability to blend humor with tragedy, creating a play that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The play’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to resonate with audiences across generations.
Legacy
The play has had a lasting impact on theater and popular culture. It has been adapted into a film, a radio play, and has been performed countless times around the world. Its influence can be seen in subsequent works of dark comedy and its exploration of family dynamics and societal norms continues to inspire playwrights and audiences alike.
Conclusion
“Arsonic and Old Lace” remains a cornerstone of American theater, celebrated for its unique blend of humor, horror, and social commentary. Joseph Kesselring’s masterful work continues to captivate audiences with its timeless themes and its ability to find laughter in the darkest of situations. The play’s enduring legacy is a testament to its brilliance and its enduring relevance in the world of theater.