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A lively theatrical performance with diverse characters and a central orator

Gross Indecency: The Trial of Oscar Wilde

Corlew Karla

In “Gross Indecency—The Three Trials of Oscar Wilde,” authored by Moises Kaufman, audiences are drawn into the gripping courtroom saga of the famed Irish poet and playwright Oscar Wilde. Centering on Wilde’s intimate relationships with men, especially Lord Alfred Douglas, this tragic drama unfolds against the backdrop of the 1890s. This era, marked by the criminalization of homosexual acts in the United Kingdom, sets the stage for Wilde’s eventual indictment on charges of “gross indecency.”

Bridging History with Contemporary Relevance

“The Department of Theatre Arts presents this poignant narrative, with Ricky Kimball, a Master of Fine Arts candidate at the University of Idaho, at the helm as director. Kimball underscores the play’s undeniable pertinence to the modern discourse on LGBTQ+ rights, noting the substantial progress that has been achieved in recent decades. Yet, he also reflects on Wilde’s ordeal as a reminder of the persistent inclination to scrutinize and judge the personal lives of individuals. Kimball’s direction infuses the production with a modern sensibility that resonates with contemporary audiences, while still honoring the historical context of Wilde’s story. This balance is achieved through innovative staging, contemporary music, and a dynamic cast that brings the characters to life with authenticity and emotional depth. 

  1. Modern Relevance: Kimball’s approach emphasizes the play’s relevance today, drawing parallels between Wilde’s experiences and current events in the LGBTQ+ community;
  2. Progress and Reflection: While celebrating the progress made in LGBTQ+ rights, the play also serves as a reflective piece on the challenges that remain;
  3. Innovative Staging: The use of modern staging techniques and multimedia elements helps to bridge the gap between Wilde’s time and ours, making the story accessible to a wider audience;
  4. Contemporary Music: The soundtrack, featuring contemporary artists, underscores the timeless themes of love, identity, and societal judgment;
  5. Dynamic Casting: The cast, carefully selected by Kimball, brings a fresh perspective to Wilde’s characters, highlighting their complexities and the universal nature of their struggles;
  6. Authenticity and Depth: The performances are grounded in authenticity, delivering emotional depth that speaks to the audience on a personal level;
  7. Historical Context: Despite its modern flair, the production respects the historical context of Wilde’s life and works, offering insights into the societal norms and attitudes of his time;
  8. Engagement with Audiences: Post-show discussions and panels are organized to engage the audience further, encouraging dialogue about the play’s themes and their relevance to today’s society;
  9. Educational Component: The production is also used as an educational tool, with school and community group discussions facilitated by the cast and crew to deepen understanding of LGBTQ+ history and rights;
  10. Collaborative Effort: The production showcases the collaborative effort of the Department of Theatre Arts, with students and faculty contributing to every aspect of the play, from design to performance.

This expanded narrative not only adds depth to the description but also organizes the information into a clear, numbered list, highlighting the multifaceted aspects of the production.

The Power of Perspective and Moral Judgment

Kimball delves into the narrative’s examination of how perspectives can profoundly influence societal definitions of truth and morality. The play highlights the damaging effects of rigid puritanical views in shaping societal norms, calling into question the collective ability to distinguish between moral and immoral actions impartially.

A Call for Empathy and Inclusivity

Kimball advocates for widespread engagement with Wilde’s story as a means to foster a more compassionate and equitable society. He envisions the production as a catalyst for dialogue on enduring social issues, emphasizing the importance of empathy and mutual respect in overcoming cultural and historical biases. Through this artistic endeavor, Kimball aims to illuminate the commonalities that unite us, transcending divisions. He believes that the arts, and theatre in particular, hold a unique power to challenge perceptions, inspire change, and nurture a more inclusive community. By presenting Wilde’s narrative with a contemporary lens, the production invites audiences to reflect on their own views and biases, encouraging a collective movement towards a society that values diversity and inclusion above all. In doing so, it seeks not only to entertain but also to educate and provoke thought, making it a poignant reminder of the transformative potential of empathy and understanding in bridging the gaps that separate us.

A Rich Tapestry of Characters and Testimonies

The script, rich with actual trial testimonies and writings from Wilde and his contemporaries, introduces an array of over 40 characters. Brought to life by a talented ensemble from the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences, the cast features Luke Holt as Oscar Wilde and Angel Kalasz as Lord Alfred Douglas. They are joined by Rachael Fornarotto, Scout Christensen, Eli Baker, Blake Presnell, Lauren Welch, Teresa Daily, Nick Hansen, Shawn Hunt, and alumnus Brian Tibayan, enriching the narrative with diverse portrayals and insights into this pivotal moment in history.