Icarus Flies High at Lookingglass

Director David Catlin successfully brings Greek mythology to the stage in Lookingglass Theatre’s production of “Icarus”, the story of a boy with wax wings who flew too close to the sun and, well, you can probably guess how that turned out. Lindsey Whiting splendidly plays the young Icarus while other cast members are also stand outs including Larry DiStasi as the boy’s father and Nicole Shalhoub as both Medea and Naucrate.

The show is a visual wonder with plenty of circus-like gymnastics and stunning, high-flying acts that take one’s breath away. Sylvia Hernandez DiStasi should receive a ton of credit for her fantastic work with the aerial choreography that makes this show such a magical experience. Captured is so much emotion and heartfelt moments that become even more meaningful, and beautiful, thanks to Hernandez’ soulful arrangements and design.

Since David Catlin also masters the art of exposing individual behaviors and does so with physical storytelling, his partnership with Hernandez couldn’t be more perfect. When asked how developed the choreographed moments are before their evolution during rehearsals, Catlin explains, “As I’m writing I will likely have a sense that there’s some sort of movement or dream sequence that, for example, is supposed to give the sense of flight, or that feeling you get when you’re first meeting someone, when you’re falling in love. But the specifics of how that ends up being manifested on stage is always better than I imagine, because of the talents of Sylvia [Hernandez].”

“Icarus” is youthful, timeless and spirited and is a wonderful correlation of many parental relationships with child. With any Greek mythology, lessons are learned that often come about by tragedy, and this story is no exception. Well-acted, luminously directed and visually exciting, “Icarus” is thoroughly enjoyable and bonding.