“Generally, when you’re dealing with a subject like apartheid, some people will see it only as political subject matter that might be boring,” Blankenship explained. He realizes that many potential theatergoers may be put off by the fact that this is a Fugard play, one with uncompromising opinions and in-your-face dramatics. It’s this humor that Blankenship hopes will help draw an audience. There’s a Laurel-and-Hardy (or maybe Vladimir-and-Estragon, from Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot”) chemistry between the prisoners, especially as the raging, prideful Winston must dress in clumsy drag to take on the role of King Creon’s doomed niece. The “Antigone” scenes are what give “The Island” both weight and humor, noted Blankenship. They are forced to give up the things that they love for what they believe in.” Political prisoners in South Africa are given the same treatment.
“She was basically put to a living death by (being placed) a prison of isolation. “To me, one of the most intriguing things about ‘The Island’ is the comparison the author makes to Antigone,” said Blankenship, who also performs in the role of Winston (Mellow Martin plays John). John is determined to make his point in the bizarre prison talent show they’re a part of. Sophocles’ persecuted heroine, he believes, represents what they’ve endured.
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