The Town Players of Newtown is staging its first full production since the local onset of the pandemic last year: a lovely performance of the moving and enlightening The Elephant Man, by Bernard Pomerance. The opening night audience left The Little Theatre with much to ponder.

The storied and tragic life of John Merrick (played by Christopher Luongo) is at the center of this classic piece. Mr Merrick was born with significant deformities which only worsened over the course of his too-short lifetime. His appearance was distorted to the degree that he was called the Elephant Man.

Yet even when forced into the role of a freak show exhibit by Ross (Tom Torpey), the spirit and intellect of this determined young man was not dampened.

Merrick was taken in by Dr Frederick Treves (Christopher Cooney), a kind and truly caring practitioner who initially took a professional interest in Merrick, only to find himself emotionally attached to this unique individual.

Under the guidance and support of Treves, Merrick became a celebrity in his own right, attracting the attention of London’s elites and royals for his creativity and humanity. Despite his irregular and unsettling appearance, he came to know love and experience respect.

Drawn to Merrick, for various reasons, was actress Mrs Kendall (Rachel Ames). From the very first, she felt a kindred spirit in Merrick.

Ruby White plays Nurse Sandwich, Countess, and Princess Alexandra, all of whom became deeply attached to the Elephant Man.

Local businessman Carl Gomn (Tony DiBenedetti) supported the work of Treves despite his doubts. He, too, develops a fondness for Merrick.

Joe Niola plays Bishop How, who encourages Merrick’s spiritual life. With his usual enthusiastic and skilled performance, Michael Wright plays several characters involved in Merrick’s life.

Directed by Terry Polvay, the staging is somber and steady. This powerful piece is not without humor, which provoked laughs on opening night.

All performers are authentic and committed. Christopher Cooney in particular lays bare a full range of emotions in his portrayal of Dr Treves. His investment in his character is solid. He is impressive.

As the title character, Chris Luongo fully renders the challenges and pain Merrick constantly experienced. He opens a window into the soul of who John Merrick really was. In doing so, he validated the experience of each character who claimed to be very much like this man whose outward appearance was frightening.

In this beautiful play, it is made clear that it is what’s on the inside that reveals the true nature of every person. On stage and in life, that is a valuable lesson indeed.

Performances continue weekends, Friday and Saturday evenings, through August 28, at 8 pm. There is also a Sunday matinee scheduled for August 22, and a Thursday evening performance on August 26.

Visit newtownplayers.org for ticket prices, reservations, and additional information.

Also note this production is being offered with limited seating, and masks are required for all audience members. The cast and crew have been vaccinated.