Directed by English and drama teacher Kevin O’Leary, the Bernard Pomerance play is based on the true story of Briton Joseph Merrick, the so-called Elephant Man, and Frederick Treves, the surgeon who took both pity and interest in the deformed Merrick.
Merrick, often called John Merrick, ultimately became the toast of London, honored even by royalty, before his death in 1890 at the age of 27.
O’Leary noted that everyone is a freak in some aspect: that the physically gorgeous may be ugly inside, or, as in Merrick’s case, that the deformed may be beautiful on the inside.
Senior Alex McCoy plays Merrick, while junior Max Ater plays Treves and senior Hannah Gabelmann is Mrs. Kendal, a famous actress who befriends Merrick.
McCoy said the most interesting part of playing Merrick is learning out how someone with normal health can contort themselves to make the audience believe that he is malformed.
O’Leary said he hopes that upon leaving the play, audience members will think twice before judging people based on their outward appearance.
Alex McCoy plays the title role in “The Elephant Man” at Morse High School at 7 p.m. on May 14 and 15. Due to graphic video imagery and simulated disrobing in the play, parental discretion is advised.