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Dahl's Bigotry Exposed in New Play "Giant"
24 Mar
Summary
- Play "Giant" explores Roald Dahl's documented antisemitism.
- John Lithgow portrays the author's transformation and prejudice.
- The play centers on a summer afternoon in 1983.
Mark Rosenblatt's play "Giant," now on Broadway, offers a potent examination of children's author Roald Dahl, almost gleefully exposing his documented bigotry. The production, starring John Lithgow, received critical acclaim in London, winning three Olivier Awards.
The narrative unfolds over a summer afternoon in 1983, depicting Dahl's transformation. Lithgow masterfully portrays the author, shifting between a lovable persona and his more deeply held prejudices, particularly evident in chilling outbursts and increasingly unsettling baby talk.
Rosenblatt's play confronts Dahl's antisemitism directly, acknowledging the lasting hurt caused by his views. The theatrical setting emphasizes Dahl's imposing physical presence, making the room feel smaller when he stands, a deliberate choice by director Nicholas Hytner.
