Hidden within the walls of a historic church is the home of the Curious Theatre Company, a Denver-favorite performing arts center known for its powerful social commentary through theatre. Throughout the years, Curious has consistently produced theatre with a message; and this season, they are challenging an all-too-relevant aspect of modern-day media—the truth.
Following Emily Penrose, an editor-in-chief for a high-profile news source, “The Lifespan of a Fact” illustrates the messy contrast between those who value the cold hard facts and those who would sacrifice them in the name of literary entertainment. When aspiring journalist Jim Fingal must fact-check established “essayist” John D’Agata’s article on a young boy’s suicide, the accuracy of the event becomes blurry in a battle of truth vs. artistic liberty.
In the age of “fake news” and the media being divided due to politics, Curious’ take on the Broadway play is needed now more than ever. In a talkback that followed the production’s Sept. 20 performance, contributing director and Curious co-founder Chip Walton reflected on the company’s prior plans to produce this type of show.
“We wanted to put on [“The Lifespan of a Fact”] much sooner, but the pandemic put it on hold,” said Walton. “Looking back, though, I think it was a blessing in disguise. The content of this script is much more hard-hitting now.”
“The Lifespan of a Fact” is the company’s first in-person production since their COVID-19 hiatus began in March of last year. “We are so glad to be back,” said actress Sheryll McCallum. “Whether or not it’s my job, theatre deserves a live audience, and it has been wonderful to see [a crowd] again.”
Leaving audience members both intrigued and morally conflicted after the performance, the Curious cast revealed their own struggles in dissecting the script. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to be back, especially with this show. The playwrights did an excellent job of stressing the importance of truth, but also leaving room to appreciate John’s extreme ego at times,” said actor William Hahn.
Despite portraying egotistical truth-bender John D’Agata in the show, Hahn relates to both sides of the argument. “I have definitely come to realize that I’ve been both [Jim and John] at different points in my life… I’ve learned to value the facts over anything in my adult life, especially with the modern way that we consume news,” Hahn said.
With carefully-placed comedic relief and a thought-provoking central message, “The Lifespan of a Fact” is relatable to anyone who’s ever questioned the validity of a headline. Combining raw emotions with a hilarious character contrast, the Curious cast and crew seamlessly kicked off their anticipated return to live theatre in Denver.
“The Lifespan of a Fact” is being performed at the Curious Theatre Company through Oct. 16, 2021. Proof of vaccination (or a negative PCR test) and masks are required to attend. Tickets are available for purchase here.
