In recent history it was the O.J. Simpson trial that had many Americans glued to their television sets, but if you were alive 60 years ago the real life courtroom drama that had everyone attentively listening to their radio was the trial of Richard Bruno Hauptman.

Hauptmann, the play by John Logan is currently playing at the Colonial Players in Annapolis through May 24th and it is an excellent production, both thought provoking and entertaining.
The 1930’s when the story takes place was the time of the Great Depression. Charles Lindbergh, a national hero lauded for his solo flight in 1927 from New York to Paris had wealth, prestige, and power. In 1932 his 20-month-old son Charles junior was kidnapped. In 1934 Bruno Hauptman a poor German immigrant with a wife and son of his own was arrested and charged with the crime. Playwright Logan does not put the focus on whether Hauptman is guilty of kidnapping and murdering the Lindbergh baby, but on the manner in which the case was handled as seen through the eyes of Hauptman himself as he tells the story of his arrest and conviction.

Actor Pat Reynolds portrays Hauptman magnificently. This is a drama, which is very dependent on the charismatic power of the central character, and Reynolds is up to the task. The six supporting actors who play a multitude of roles—prison guards, reporters, expert witnesses, judge, lawyer, Hauptmann’s wife Anna, and Charles and Anne Morrow Lindbergh are all talented and versatile actors. My only criticism is the casting choice for Charles Lindbergh. Having seen him in historic photographs and newsreels, it was a stretch to believe the actor assuming his part for most of the play’s run, who is a mere 22 years old, is the 33 year old Lindbergh.

Colonial Players is a theater in the round, which director Beth Terranova utilizes to its best advantage to create intimacy with the audience. You are asked to take your seat as the trial begins and shown “the evidence” as the plot unfolds. During intermission copies of the original newsreels are played and in her director’s notes Terranova explains how she utilized the colors in the old newsreels to create the palette for her set, costumes, and lighting. It is evident she put a great deal of thought into the creative process and it shows.

For more information on show times and ticket availability visit www.cplayers.com or call 410-268-7373.

-- Nadja Maril