Sir Nicholas Hytner, an acclaimed theatre director and former artistic director of the National Theatre, discusses his latest production, Giant, and its unexpectedly timely relevance. He delves into the complexities of Jewish identity in the arts amid current events, examining controversial figures like Roald Dahl. Hytner highlights the importance of joy in theater, contrasting London's vibrant arts scene with the conflicts in the Middle East. He also explores innovative audience engagement and the interplay of creativity and morality within the theatrical community.
Sir Nicholas Hytner's production, Giant, prompts a timely exploration of Roald Dahl's anti-Semitic views and their cultural ramifications.
The play highlights the evolution of Jewish identity through complex character dynamics, especially focusing on heritage and solidarity against racism.
Deep dives
The Context of Roald Dahl's Anti-Semitism
The focus of the play is on Roald Dahl, the beloved children's author, and his well-documented anti-Semitic views. Set in the early 1980s, the play depicts a fictional confrontation after Dahl's publication of a racially charged book review, highlighting the fallout from his actions. The narrative unfolds as his Jewish publisher, Tom Mashler, attempts to address the consequences of Dahl's words and get him to understand their impact. This exploration brings to light the broader theme of how racism can permeate even the most cherished cultural figures.
Contrasting Jewish Perspectives
The characters in the play represent varying Jewish identities, particularly through Mashler and Jesse Stone, an American Jewish publisher. Mashler, a Holocaust survivor, starts off largely disengaged from his Jewish roots, while Stone passionately defends Israel and confronts Dahl's anti-Semitism. Their interactions delve into complex discussions around identity and the nuances of Jewish solidarity in the face of racism. As the plot progresses, Mashler evolves, grappling with his heritage and the implications of his silence regarding Dahl's offensive remarks.
Art and the Morality of Creation
The conversation around separating an artist's work from their personal beliefs is a critical theme in the discussion of Dahl and his legacy. It raises questions about whether it is acceptable to enjoy an artist's creations despite their moral failings, which resonates deeply with audiences today. This paradox is evident in how people appreciate Dahl's stories while also recognizing his troubling views on Jews. The discussion emphasizes that great art can come from flawed individuals, and understanding this complexity enriches the audience’s engagement with both the artist and their work.
As the Jewish world welcomes in the festival of Sukkot, we’re taking a step back from the headlines to bring you a special treat—a captivating interview with a legend of the theatre, Sir Nicholas Hytner. He talks about his latest sell-out production, Giant, which thanks to events in the Middle East has become unexpectedly timely.