Gift Theatre Presents ‘Marble’ by Marina Carr

Two married men, Art and Ben, converse over drinks. Art reveals a dream in which he was intimate with Ben’s wife in a marble room. The experience was enjoyable for him. That same day, Ben’s wife, Catherine, confesses she also dreamt of intimacy with Art, with marble as a backdrop. Both found the dreams appealing. This intriguing scenario sets the stage for Marina Carr’s play, “Marble,” presented by Gift Theatre.

The play explores if these shared dreams are coincidental or a mystical experience. It questions whether this dream infidelity is a metaphor for deeper marital issues. From the start, it engages, leaving the audience guessing on the unfolding drama.

First performed at Dublin’s Abbey Theatre in 2009, “Marble” examines the unraveling of two middle-aged marriages. It suggests that either the husbands never truly knew their wives, or they were unprepared for how their wives changed over the years. Carr’s narrative is intimate, reminiscent of Harold Pinter’s and Edward Albee’s works, like “Betrayal” and “The Goat, or Who Is Sylvia?”

Focusing on the women, Carr gives Brittany Burch and Cyd Blakewell meaty roles as wife characters. Burch’s Catherine exudes pent-up desire, while Blakewell’s character drowns her feelings in wine. Their performances in director Kay Martinovich’s production are striking, set against the historic backdrop of Jefferson Park’s Copernicus Center.

The male characters, played by Paul D’Addario and John Gawlik, depict cluelessness and growing desperation. Carr delves into philosophical questions about desire and marriage, inviting comparisons to characters like Nora from “A Doll’s House” and themes found in Sarah Kane’s work.

“Marble” also portrays how marital resentment can grow into significant friction, leading to either escapism or the stifling of hope and desire. Though intense, the play mixes poetic expression with humor, achieving a unique theatrical experience.

“Why are we given such yearnings?” Catherine asks, reflecting on marriage’s unattainable desires.

From a production standpoint, Gift Theatre utilizes the space creatively. However, more drive and rhythmic tightening, especially in Act 1, could heighten tension. A few minor adjustments, like the sound design, might enhance the immersive experience. Regular patrons of Gift Theatre will still find joy in the strong performances that characterize this Chicago company’s productions.

This intricately crafted drama highlights the complexity of marriage. It’s a thought-provoking experience, whether viewed with a partner or as a reminder of the single life’s simplicity. See it with someone special, or enjoy it solo.

“Marble” runs until August 30 at the Copernicus Center, located at 5216 W. Lawrence Ave. The performance lasts two hours. Tickets are priced between $45-50 and are available by calling 773-283-7071 or visiting thegifttheatre.org.