John Lithgow as Roald Dahl in ‘Giant’: A Study in Monstrosity
The New York Times • • entertainment
Key Points:
- The Broadway play "Giant," which opened at the Music Box Theater, stars John Lithgow and explores the life of children's author Roald Dahl, focusing on his documented antisemitism.
- The play centers on a summer afternoon in 1983, depicting Dahl's shift from a charming author to revealing his prejudiced side, using psychologically nuanced but sometimes blunt dramatic techniques.
- Lithgow portrays Dahl as a towering figure both physically and metaphorically, with the production emphasizing Dahl's imposing presence and the unsettling aspects of his personality.
- The play highlights the contrast between Dahl's beloved, whimsical children's stories and the darker, troubling facets of his character, particularly his antisemitic views.
- Directed by Nicholas Hytner with a minimalist set design by Bob Crowley, the production uses space and Dahl's stature to symbolize the complex and sometimes overwhelming nature of the author’s persona.
