Such sentiment unfortunately proved to be the fate of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the subject of the Irish Classical Theater Company's production of "Amadeus."
"Amadeus" follows Mozart through the latter portion of his life in the 18th century, which was spent as a struggling a composer in Vienna. The theater is composed of only three rows, surrounding a small "island" stage.
Considering the audience is, at most, eight feet from the action of the actors, there is a strong feeling of connection and involvement with this compelling telling of Mozart's life.
In the opening scene, actor Peter Palmisano, playing Antonio Salieri, captures attention by making eye contact with audience members in his initial soliloquy. He first appears as an elderly and sickly man shouting his confession to Mozart's murder.
As Salieri sheds his rags, the setting flashes to Vienna in 1782. The lights come up and it is apparent that we have arrived in the royal court. Mozart has just arrived in Vienna, and the action freezes as each new character enters by way of the audience entrance.
Salieri, also acting as narrator, introduces characters such as the Emperor of Austria, Count Johann Kilian von Strack and Count Franz Orsini-Rosenberg, and also introduces himself as the Court Composer.
Salieri's jealousy of Mozart is evident from the very first scene, and only develops as he witnesses the court's awe at Mozart's arrival. Salieri discloses several comedic and powerful soliloquies about his plot to prevent Mozart's fame from flourishing.
Nearly as surprising as the crude humor that was laced throughout nearly every scene was Mozart's immaturity and silliness.
As humorous as it can be at times, "Amadeus" also showcases several extremely talented actors in this tragic story about a brilliant musician struggling through life at the mercy of a jealous and powerful man.
"I was amazed by Peter Palmisano, who spent nearly the entire performance onstage and never missed a beat," said a member of the audience.
Another notable performance was that of Katie Ann McDermott, who played Constanze "Stanzi" Weber, Mozart's wife. McDermott exemplified the unmistakable inner struggle between the pain she endured from her husband's misfortune and the overwhelming love and loyalty she felt for him.
Michael Votta and Christian Brandjes play Salieri's partners in crime, always rushing on and off the stage, keeping him up-to-date on Mozart's endeavors and serving as the play's constant comic relief with flawless synchronization of their lines.
To complete the nearly unblemished performance, the audience is brought back in time by both the convincing set and costume designs. The simple set was used to its fullest potential, composed of only two raised platforms, a beautiful antique lounge chair and a piano.
Each costume appeared genuine, with precise detail and color for every coat, dress and stocking. The floral stitching and pale yellow contrast succeeded in taking the audience back to an 18th century atmosphere.
From setting and lighting to drama and comedy, this chronicle of Mozart's life and work, which is heard, introduced and described throughout the performance, appeals to a wide demographic.
"Amadeus" is playing at the Andrew's Theater of the Irish Classical Theater Company Sept. 15-Oct. 16, and is more than worthy of the standing ovation it received.
Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Messina, from the RMBERS' Instagram page
