Plays In Nazi Settings (Press, 7 September 1985)

On 7 September 1985, Paul R. Bushnell reviewed two plays published by Amber Lane Press, "Bent" by Martin Sherman and "Summit Conference" by Robert David MacDonald. Both plays explore the theme of war, but they diverge significantly in tone and treatment. "Bent," which previously received acclaim for its powerful performance at the Court Theatre, tells a harrowing story of three men—Max, Rudy, and Horst—who face persecution under the Nazi regime for being homosexual. Bushnell describes it as an absorbing and compassionate portrayal that highlights the personal toll of intolerance and brutality. The characters are depicted with depth, making their struggles resonate strongly with the audience. Sherman’s work avoids reducing the horrors of war and persecution to mere statistics, instead focusing on the intimate experiences and dignity of gay individuals in crisis. One particularly striking scene features Max and Horst communicating their desire and connection despite their dire circumstances, serving as a testament to their humanity and resilience. This relationship endures throughout the play, reinforcing themes of love and identity amid the backdrop of oppression. In contrast, "Summit Conference" presents a fictionalised meeting between Eva Braun and Clara Petacci, the partners of Hitler and Mussolini, respectively, set in Berlin in 1941. Bushnell finds the play lacking in substance and engaging conflict. He critiques MacDonald’s attempt to infuse the narrative with significant social issues, as the portrayal of the women’s mistreatment of their tea-serving soldier feels forced and shallow. The review suggests that the drawing-room comedy format fails to adequately support the weight of the serious themes MacDonald tries to convey, resulting in a play that ultimately feels unworthy and unenjoyable. Overall, the review highlights the stark contrast between the two works—while "Bent" offers a poignant exploration of love and suffering in the face of war, "Summit Conference" falls short of delivering a meaningful message, illustrating the complexities and challenges when addressing critical issues through theatrical storytelling. Both plays, priced at $9.95 each in paperback, are available through Scriptura Associates.

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