Doug Wright's play "Good Night, Oscar" delves into the complex life and psyche of Oscar Levant, a man who wore many hats—wit, composer, pianist, and mental health patient. Set in 1958, the narrative unfolds around Levant’s appearance on "The Tonight Show" with Jack Paar. This event is fraught with tension as Levant navigates his fragile mental state, strict network rules, and personal demons. The drama alternates between the real world and Levant’s hallucinatory mind, showcasing his inner turmoil and unfulfilled musical ambitions.
On the eve of his television appearance, Levant finds himself grappling with numerous challenges. Having recently been released from a psychiatric facility under false pretenses, he faces stringent conditions set by NBC not to discuss religion, politics, or sex. Despite these constraints, Levant breaks every rule, fueled by an entire bottle of Demerol he secretly consumes. His descent into hallucinations leads to a confrontation with the ghost of George Gershwin, symbolizing Levant's unattained aspirations. Meanwhile, in reality, he reluctantly performs Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue," delivering a performance that is both haunting and triumphant before collapsing.
The characters surrounding Levant add depth to the story. Jack Paar, portrayed by Sasha Andreev, recognizes Levant’s unique genius and seeks to showcase it despite the risks. June, Levant’s supportive yet resilient wife, played by Gail Rastorfer, endures her husband’s volatile nature while advocating for him. Bob Sarnoff, the NBC president, portrayed by David Breitbarth, embodies corporate caution but ultimately desires what he believes is best for the network. Each character contributes to the unfolding drama, highlighting the interplay of ambition, loyalty, and constraint.
Director Peter Amster skillfully manages the play’s pacing, ensuring clarity amidst its intricate structure. Alternating between the tangible world of NBC studios and Levant’s distorted perceptions, the production effectively captures a lifetime of artistic self-doubt and pharmaceutical chaos within its brief runtime. Max Roll delivers a standout performance as Levant, channeling the man’s biting humor and manic brilliance with remarkable authenticity. His rendition of "Rhapsody in Blue" serves as a cathartic climax, each note resonating with the internal battles Levant faces.
Beyond the stage spectacle, the design elements enhance the experience. Robert Perdziola’s sets and costumes vividly evoke the era, contrasting Levant’s disheveled appearance with the polished aesthetics of his surroundings. Ultimately, "Good Night, Oscar" leaves audiences with a profound appreciation for Levant’s contributions to music and culture. While overshadowed by figures like Gershwin, Levant remains a towering figure whose legacy deserves recognition. Through this play, viewers gain insight into the life of a man whose brilliance was matched only by his struggles, leaving an indelible mark on the world of art and entertainment.