The Alchemist (Ensemble Theatre Co-operative)

As a chemical engineer (yes, I was a chemical engineer before my PhD) I always have had a soft spot for anything that is associated with chemistry. I always wanted to be an alchemist and transform things with my touch. But I think I now transform humans with my teaching, and my research. And of course, with my theatre writing. The Alchemist, by Ben Johnson and produced by Ensemble Theatre Co-operative sounds like a really fun play, and one I hope you’ll consider attending.

Ben Jonson’s The Alchemist comically proclaims the lunacy of greed within all of us. Out to profit for themselves, grifters Face, Subtle and Dol Common, weave a series of intricate and comical cons throughout the city of London. Everyone from entrepreneurs to evangelicals forsakes any judgment, for a shot at self-indulgence and cold-hard cash, and Face, Subtle and Dol are only too willing to take full-advantage of their blind-faith. Written in 1610, Jonson’s play, seems peculiarly attuned to the cynical, disillusioned sensibility of 2012.

You can purchase tickets for The Alchemist on Tickets Tonight. Playing July 6-28, Wednesday to Sunday at 8pm, at 1675 Discovery Street (The Jericho Arts Centre). Wednesdays are “Pay What You Will”. Tickets ($17-$22) are available at the door and on Tickets Tonight too.