A self-proclaimed left-libertarian from Texas, Molly Ivins (Kathleen Turner) has fought an upward battle to succeed in her career and life, both as a woman and a leftist journalist. In true Texan fashion, “Red Hot Patriot: The Kick-Ass Wit of Molly Ivins” tells the late journalist’s story from birth to untimely death. Delivering an outstanding performance, Turner uncannily transforms into Ivins, both in mannerisms and physical appearance, and the writing superlatively encapsulates the journalist’s lively spirit but leaves out thoughtful transitions from the upbeat to the melancholy.
Thorough in her transformation, Turner forgets herself in the character. Turner’s accent, voice, movements and thoughts become Ivins’. Dressed in red cowboy boots, a casual jean button-down shirt and classic straight-legged jeans, Turner oozes with typical Texan charm. Brazen and endearing, Ivins unabashedly deals snappy comebacks and retorts, and Turner knows how to deliver them. About to reveal one of her deepest secrets, Turner coquettishly admits, “If truth be told — hah, isn’t that a novelty?”
Written by Margaret and Allison Engel, the script leaves nothing to the taboo. Ivins honestly discusses her difficult familial relationships, her unlucky relationships, her adamant anti-war sentiments, former and current presidents, her debilitating drinking problem and her unrelenting devotion to her journalist duties. In conjunction with the script’s openness, the writers used actual quotes from Ivins’ columns, making the character’s feisty and provocative nature pop on stage.
But one thing that was lacking in the script, as well as the production, was smooth transitioning. To signal that Ivins was changing subjects, the projector screen behind the set would suddenly come to life and show a picture of a politician or a family member. Turner would look back, occasionally in mid-sentence and say the title of her next subject. Completely non sequitur, these changes halted the flow of Ivins’ informal conversation, especially if the next topic bore a sad tone.
Taken from Ivins’ last publication for AlterNet, the finale summarizes her unceasing drive for the truth and endless desire for citizen activism. After discussing her recurring fight with breast cancer, Ivins turns to the audience for her final words. Inspiring an impulse for immediate action, Ivins says, “Every single day, every one of us needs to step outside and take some action to help stop this war… We need people in the streets, banging pots and pans and demanding, ‘Stop it, now!'” With that explosive entreaty, Turner takes her bow and leaves the stage.
The creativity of the sassy writing combined with Turner’s bold performance makes “Red Hot Patriot” perfect for journalists and writers who understand Ivins’ struggles. Turner excels on stage as Ivins, but loses the character in the transitions to the more melodramatic moments. Even if the change of pace catches the audience unawares, the writing picks up the slack with poignant, unforgettable lines.
“Red Hot Patriot: The Kick-Ass Wit of Molly Ivins” is playing at the Geffen Playhouse until Feb. 12. Ticket prices range from $75 to $85.
Natalia Evdokimova has been involved with theater throughout her life and has reviewed theatrical productions for local and citywide publications since 2005.
