Who am I? Who are you? Who are any of us really? It’s a question that has plagued humanity since we started on this planet, and a question “Fun Home” decides to tackle. The musical, based on a 2006 graphic novel by Alison Bechdel, deals with the protagonist Alison discovering her queer identity and grappling with the fact that she and her father might not be so different after all.
Winona State University professor, and director of this musical, Jim Williams describes this performance as a way to “explore the world of identity.” This show handles difficult subject matter in a way that is easily digestible for the audience. The line between comedy and seriousness is a fine line to walk and this performance walks it well.
The actors of this show have managed to switch from cracking jokes and laughing to a moment of sobering tenseness. As we, the audience, watch three stages of Alison’s life ebb and flow with discovery and tribulations, we get to see how Alison has come to be where she is. All three actresses do an amazing job portraying child Alison, college Alison, and adult Alison. The third and oldest Alison, played by Winona State student Jensen Drake, wades back through her memories in an attempt to figure out why things ended up the way they did.
Drake sums up the atmosphere of the play, saying “the show will bring the audience laughter, but it will also make the audience think.”
Drake shares that what endeared her to the role and made her feel like it was important was the personal connection she could make to it.
“It has a big message surrounding queer mental health and as a queer person myself, this was like the second time in my life I got a chance to be a queer role in a show.” Drake said.
These kinds of representation have a great impact not only on the audience but also the people involved in the show itself. That’s not to say the audience won’t be impacted, especially if they see themselves in the characters’ experiences.
“I really just want people to be able to find some comforts and feel valid in their experience watching the show.” Drake said.
A production like this requires a number of people to run it, and the person manning the whole thing is none other than Blake Wolff, the Stage Manager. Wolff is in charge of managing the actors which he describes as being “extremely professional,” and working “so hard.” In addition, he also manages the crew.
“I also appreciate the crew, thank you for working so hard and for helping me in situations where I need help.” Wolff said.
The whole process requires a lot of effort from everyone involved, and every individual is integral. Wolff’s appreciation for the cast and crew’s work and effort can be shared in just a few simple words.
“I just hope I’ve been able to lift some people up too.” Wolff said.
In a performance surrounding identity and differing values, it makes sense that it resonates with so many people. While some people have the freedom to express who they are, or even know who they are, others don’t. This show demonstrates the importance of being able to freely express oneself and the damage that can happen when someone is forced to be something they’re not. If there’s one thing to take away, it’s that self-discovery is a process. And one day we might all be able to answer that age-old question. Who are any of us really? Who are you? Who am I?
