When an usher whispers, 'The gorillas are coming,' you know you're in for something extraordinary. And Tarzan at The REV Theatre delivers on that promise—and then some. But what makes this production truly remarkable isn’t just its acrobatic gorillas or immersive jungle set; it’s how it challenges our understanding of what theater can be. Let me explain.
The Jungle as a Character
The moment you step into The REV, you’re not just watching a show—you’re entering a world. Scenic designer Stephen Gifford’s jungle set is a masterpiece of depth and detail. Personally, I think what makes this particularly fascinating is how the set becomes a character in its own right. The layered vines, strategic shadows, and flowing waterfall (which I, like the reviewer, didn’t notice until Act II) create a sense of endlessness. It’s as if the jungle itself is alive, breathing and shifting with the story. What many people don’t realize is that this level of immersion isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about emotional engagement. When the jungle feels real, Tarzan’s struggle to belong feels real, too.
Gorillas That Steal the Show
Now, let’s talk about those gorillas. The ensemble’s commitment to their roles is nothing short of astounding. From their monkey antics to their intricate 'ape-eography,' they blur the line between animal and human. What this really suggests is that theater can transcend mimicry and achieve something deeper: empathy. When you see Sterling Baker-McClary as Terk scatting wildly while swinging upside down, you’re not just laughing—you’re connecting. In my opinion, this is where the production shines brightest. It’s not just about the spectacle; it’s about making you feel something.
Phil Collins’ Musical Tightrope
Here’s where things get interesting. Phil Collins’ music for Tarzan is a study in contrasts. On one hand, you have the iconic ‘You’ll Be in My Heart,’ a song so powerful it won an Academy Award. On the other, you have tracks like Jane’s introduction, which feels more like a botany lecture set to music. From my perspective, this inconsistency isn’t a flaw—it’s a reflection of the story’s complexity. Tarzan himself is a character caught between two worlds, and the music mirrors that tension. But if you take a step back and think about it, it also raises a deeper question: How much should a musical rely on its songs to carry the narrative? Personally, I think some moments would have been more impactful as dialogue, but that’s part of what makes this production so thought-provoking.
The Human in the Wild
Dean Cestari’s Tarzan and Emma Dean’s Jane are a study in contrasts—and chemistry. Tarzan’s animalistic movements and childlike wonder are a perfect foil to Jane’s prim and proper demeanor. What makes this particularly fascinating is how their relationship evolves. As they spend more time together, you see them influencing each other, blurring the lines between human and wild. This isn’t just a love story; it’s a commentary on identity and belonging. One thing that immediately stands out is how the actors’ performances elevate the material, turning what could be a simple adventure into a profound exploration of what it means to be human.
Beyond the Stage: The Broader Implications
What this production really suggests is that theater can be more than entertainment—it can be a mirror. The story of Tarzan, with its themes of identity, family, and the natural world, feels eerily relevant in today’s context. If you take a step back and think about it, we’re all grappling with questions of belonging in a rapidly changing world. The REV’s Tarzan doesn’t just tell a story; it invites you to reflect on your own place in it. A detail that I find especially interesting is how the jungle’s vibrant, non-traditional colors (magenta, bright blue) challenge our expectations. It’s a reminder that nature, like humanity, is more complex than we often give it credit for.
Final Thoughts
Stepping out of The REV and back into Auburn, New York, felt jarring—almost like leaving the jungle behind. This production doesn’t just entertain; it lingers. In my opinion, that’s the mark of great theater. It’s not just about what happens on stage; it’s about what it leaves you thinking about afterward. Personally, I think Tarzan is a reminder that we’re all a little wild, a little lost, and a little human—and that’s what makes us fascinating.
