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NYU Play: Kramer-Fauci's Complex Dance
12 Feb
Summary
- A play stages a 1993 C-SPAN broadcast of Kramer and Fauci's AIDS debate.
- The performance explores the activist-scientist relationship's 'hate to love' evolution.
- Actors channel Kramer and Fauci without impersonating their appearance.
A new theatrical production, "Kramer/Fauci," at NYU Skirball revives a pivotal 1993 C-SPAN broadcast. This verbatim staging focuses on a heated exchange between AIDS activist Larry Kramer and scientist Anthony Fauci.
The one-hour performance captures the volatile dynamic between Kramer and Fauci, whose relationship evolved from acrimony to profound friendship. The actors, Thomas Jay Ryan as Kramer and Will Brill as Fauci, aim to channel the individuals' spirits rather than mimic their appearance.
Director Daniel Fish is interested in how the 1993 conversation resonates today, with current knowledge. The play dramatizes the push-and-pull between Kramer's confrontational activism and Fauci's measured scientific diplomacy.
This complex relationship, described by Kramer as the most complicated in his life, ultimately saw them working towards a shared goal. Their ability to communicate despite deep differences is a central theme.
The production incorporates theatrical elements, including a performer on roller skates representing anonymous callers. Actors use earpieces to maintain the original broadcast's rapid pace and rhythm.
