Interludes

THE HANGOVER REPORT – The gritty but poetic ENDURE voyeuristically immerses audiences into the mind of a marathon runner

• By drediman
• July 20, 2021
• No Comments

This past weekend, I participated in Endure, a self-professed “run woman show” that’s currently taking its audiences on an on-foot odyssey through Central Park. Created and written by Melanie Jones, the unique promenade production premiered about a decade ago and has since traveled the globe prior to this summer’s return to New York (the piece was originally performed in Prospect Park). The dance-theater piece tells the deeply personal story of a woman and the circumstances and series of events that compel her to sign up for her first marathon.

The show basically comes in the form of a pre-recorded monologue – intensely performed in the first person by Ms. Jones – which is visually manifested by a wordless physical performance that has you literally chasing after a fit female runner through the park. What’s notable about the production is how it engages the senses to become one with the protagonist. Through the use of individual headsets, the character’s thoughts are sonically funneled directly into your head, creating a level of immersion that borders on voyeuristic, which thereby amplifies the runner’s vulnerabilities, rage, failures, and triumphs. And by taking audiences on a brisk 3.1 mile walk (some in my group even opted to lightly jog at some points in order to keep on pace with the nimble performer) through the park, even physical fatigue plays a part in portraying the grueling experience and hard-won payoff of running a marathon (which, of course, can be taken as a metaphor).

The text by Ms. Jones (who actually also originated the in-person physical role) is both poetic and gritty, and its honest depictions of mental illness, the messiness of romantic relationships, and the dilemma of seizing the day versus investing in long-term sustainability will strike a strong chord in many of us. Endure has been directed by Suchan Vodoor, whose adaptable, propulsive work elegantly balances realism with the expressionism of dance, as well as takes advantage of both Central Park’s intimate nooks and striking vistas – all the while giving audiences the freedom to choose their own perspectives from which to experience the performance. Also contributing to the overall experience is Christine Owman’s score, which soulfully underscores the action. Last but not least, kudos to athletes/dancers Mary Cavett and Casey Howes (who alternate in the physical role), who imbue their performances with Olympian athleticism, resilience, and ultimately grace.

(Words of advice: Come prepared for the experience – wear comfortable shoes and don’t overdress.)

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

ENDURE
Immersive theater, Dance / In-person
Central Park (exact location disclosed the day before the performance)
1 hour, 10 minutes (without an intermission)
Through August 8