Edgar Allan Poe: Once Upon a Midnight
Encyclopedia
Edgar Allan Poe: Once Upon a Midnight is a one man play starring John Astin
as Edgar Allan Poe
. Astin said, of why he wanted to do a play on Poe, "I feel that Poe, through his own tortured existence, gained deep insight into the nature of the universe, along with an intense love and appreciation for life itself. Through this play I want to share that impression with others."
, his marriage and his struggles to make his mark as a poet
, publisher and writer
. It is peppered with numerous quotes from many of Poe's works, and also includes a complete recitation of Poe's poem "The Raven
". John Astin, as Poe, is the only character on stage throughout the play.
John Astin
John Allen Astin is an American actor who has appeared in numerous films and television shows, and is best known for the role of Gomez Addams on The Addams Family, and other similarly eccentric comedic characters.-Early years:...
as Edgar Allan Poe
Edgar Allan Poe
Edgar Allan Poe was an American author, poet, editor and literary critic, considered part of the American Romantic Movement. Best known for his tales of mystery and the macabre, Poe was one of the earliest American practitioners of the short story and is considered the inventor of the detective...
. Astin said, of why he wanted to do a play on Poe, "I feel that Poe, through his own tortured existence, gained deep insight into the nature of the universe, along with an intense love and appreciation for life itself. Through this play I want to share that impression with others."
The Play
The story is told through Poe's eyes, as he narrates his own life to the audience. He tells of his childhood, his time in the military and the troubles he caused while at West PointUnited States Military Academy
The United States Military Academy at West Point is a four-year coeducational federal service academy located at West Point, New York. The academy sits on scenic high ground overlooking the Hudson River, north of New York City...
, his marriage and his struggles to make his mark as a poet
Poet
A poet is a person who writes poetry. A poet's work can be literal, meaning that his work is derived from a specific event, or metaphorical, meaning that his work can take on many meanings and forms. Poets have existed since antiquity, in nearly all languages, and have produced works that vary...
, publisher and writer
Writer
A writer is a person who produces literature, such as novels, short stories, plays, screenplays, poetry, or other literary art. Skilled writers are able to use language to portray ideas and images....
. It is peppered with numerous quotes from many of Poe's works, and also includes a complete recitation of Poe's poem "The Raven
The Raven
"The Raven" is a narrative poem by American writer Edgar Allan Poe, first published in January 1845. It is often noted for its musicality, stylized language, and supernatural atmosphere. It tells of a talking raven's mysterious visit to a distraught lover, tracing the man's slow descent into madness...
". John Astin, as Poe, is the only character on stage throughout the play.
Credits
- Written by Paul Day Clemens and Ron Magid
- Directed by Alan Bergmann
- Scenery, props and projections by John Boesche
- Lighting by Jason R. Beghtol
- Sound design by Rob Milburn and Michael Bodeen
- Original Music by Ian Freebairn-Smith
- Production stage manager - Brian J. L'Ecuyer
- Booking by Windwood Theatricals