When I saw 12 Angry Men on this year’s Hale Center Theatre schedule I was surprised and intrigued. Hale is usually known for doing big spectacle musicals even on their Sorensen Legacy Jewel Box Stage. So, I was curious to see what they would do with a one-room, character piece like this. Now I have seen it, and I hope they are encouraged to take more risks like this in the future because it is an outstanding production and one I highly recommend.

Of course, I am very familiar with the 1957 film version of 12 Angry Men starring Henry Fonda as our brave Juror 8. Before that film it was a teleplay in 1954 starring Robert Cummings, which is kind of interesting. I can’t think of that many works that started as a TV movie and then went to stage and film (Cinderella comes to mind which debuted in 1957 so maybe it was a TV movie movement at the time?) All the versions were written and adapted by Reginald Rose so I suppose that is why they are all so effective. In addition, 12 Angry Men is a virtual showcase for actors, particularly character actors, to shine. In the film giving talent like Ed Begley, Lee J Cobb and Jack Warden a spotlight is incredible to watch (insane that nobody in the cast was nominated for Oscars that year!)

At Hale the cast is up for the legacy and gravitas this piece demands. Paul Cartwright and David D’Agostini have probably the most flashy parts as the racist/xenophobic Jurors 3 and 10 respectively, but the other actors have equally impactful if less bombastic moments. For example, Randy Honaker is really lovely as the tired weary older man of Juror 9. Morgan Gunter brings just the right amount of likability with a little smugness to our lead Juror 8. I noticed in the program a lot of actors making their Hale debut, which I love to see. A company like Hale should be cultivating new talent and widening their acting pool beyond the same expected faces.

This production at Hale is directed by Stephanie Breinholt, and she does a good job creating an atmosphere of heat and tension that boils over as the men talk. She has clearly brought out the best in her cast and in a play like this that is essential to its success. The set by Jenn Taylor is incredible in its attention to detail even making sure to account for the bathroom seen behind the door in the courtroom. It is also amazing to watch the projection of the city behind the windows with the rain changing throughout (video/projection design Madeline Ashton.)

The themes of 12 Angry Men are interesting to consider. In truth there are no perfect cases without any holes given to juries. Yes there needs to be beyond reasonable doubt but that’s not no doubt. If we held all evidence to such exacting standards we might never convict anyone (if every witness is wrong, every testimony false etc) But in the end, it’s an underdog story and who can’t root for that? Especially when it involves saving the life of a young man who obviously was in a bad situation. It also tries to show what 12 ordinary men might act like if placed under a microscope. It’s set in 1957 but would it be any different today (although juror 3 and 10 really should have been eliminated in the juror selection process)? Maybe? Maybe not? I suppose that is why it still rings true today and the production at Hale is as effective as it is. It’s truly a must watch of this theatre season. I may try to see it again with the other cast. I was that impressed.

With 12 Angry Men and Finding Neverland both playing I can’t think of when Hale has had a stronger 2 show line-up than what they are currently offering. Season ticket holders are definitely getting their moneys-worth there this May and June. 12 Angry Men plays through July 26th and ticket can be purchased here.

If you enjoy my writing and would like me to review your production I’d love to. I also have a patreon which is a great way to support my shorter logs for shows I don’t get to review. I have some really fun perks like bonus episodes, patron polls and monthly Q&As with actors, directors and writers. Please take a look here.