THE ELEPHANT MAN starring Bradley Cooper

Bradley Cooper, the handsome, talented Oscar nom. movie star is cast as John Merrick, (b. England 1862-90) a horrendously disfigured man.  Merrick suffered from a condition called elephantitis resulting in massive swelling & bodily distortions.  The play begins on an ascetic set with Cooper dressed in only  shorts standing next to a life size photo of Merrick.  Dr. Frederick Treves is on the other side of the photo acerbically describing Merrick's maladies.   Cooper contorts himself to align with the disfigurements as they're being pointed out.  Cooper's transformation & performance are nothing short of miraculous.   Without the use of prosthesis, Cooper personifies the deformities and disabling speech & movements of Merrick; "The Elephant Man."  Dr. Treves finds Merrick being displayed & humiliated in a freak show.  He rescues Merrick from this degradation & brings  him to live at the hospital where he works.  However, Merrick's torment persists as staff come to gape or refuse to attend to him.  This deeply stirring philosophical play contemplates religion & humanity.   Mrs. Kendal, a famous actress  (the always illuminating Patricia Clarkson) is drawn to visit Merrick & a trusting friendship develops.  The moment Mrs. Kendal & Merrick first shake hands communicates the crucial role of physical contact.  Act I ends with Merrick's heartbreaking wails.  For all his prior suffering & humiliations, his newfound friendships & kindnesses of others reveal an endless chasm of despair.  Merrick comprehends the vast experiences his grotesque physique will deprive him of in life.  This inspirational & extraordinary play leaves you grateful for the joy & astonishment of ordinary things.