ATC’s ‘Bob & Jean’: A Timeless Love Letter to Legacy

Award-winning playwright Robert Schenkkan, acclaimed for his sweeping historical dramas like “The Kentucky Cycle” and “All the Way,” shifts gears with the intimate premiere of “Bob & Jean: A Love Story” at Arizona Theatre Company. This poignant narrative, rooted in personal family history, explores the complexities of love amid the backdrop of World War II.

Drawing from the actual letters exchanged between his parents, the play features Bob, a Navy officer, and Jean, a USO performer. Their romance, fragile yet profound, unfolds as they strive to maintain their connection while faced with the challenges of war. Schenkkan’s work encapsulates an era defined by duty and dramatic change, showcasing a generation that valued intention in romantic relationships, contrasting sharply with today’s fast-paced digital interactions.

“Bob & Jean” resonates with a tender emotional depth but occasionally lacks the intensity needed to fully engage the audience. The play’s focus on love and separation delivers a memorable homage to a time when relationships were cultivated with care, even in the face of adversity. The couple’s bond progresses through their correspondence, lending an epistolary framework that deepens the narrative of love struggling against chaos.

Under the direction of Matt August, the production achieves a subtle power through relatable language and meticulously choreographed interactions. The staging emphasizes emotional undercurrents without relying on spectacle, maintaining an intimate atmosphere that enhances the storyline’s romantic tension.

The cast delivers strong performances, each actor infusing the play with emotional depth. Scott Wentworth, as the narrator, provides a warm and reassuring presence, while Mary Mattison’s portrayal of Jean captures both confidence and vulnerability. Jake Bentley Young’s Bob exemplifies a blend of charisma and introspection, embodying the traits of a man driven by duty yet introspective.

However, Bob’s consistently polished appearance throughout the narrative raises questions about authenticity. His character might benefit from a physical representation of the emotional struggle resulting from his separation. The pacing is engaging, mixing humor and poignancy, yet the emotional arc risks falling short of a fulfilling resolution. The absence of palpable stakes can leave the audience yearning for a deeper connection at the story’s climax.

Visually, the production excels with thoughtful design elements. Mike Billings’ lighting shifts effectively mirror the emotional landscape of the characters, while Stephen Gifford’s set design evokes a sense of nostalgia, incorporating aged letters that provide historical context without overshadowing the action. The integration of John Gromada’s original music adds to the immersive experience, creating an ambiance that enhances the unfolding drama.

In a rapidly evolving storytelling landscape, “Bob & Jean” offers a reflective look at historical romance, though it might not feel as relevant without a modern context. Nevertheless, the timeless themes of love, distance, and perseverance continue to resonate. This production speaks to an enduring human desire for connection, emphasizing the importance of communication in times of separation.

Ultimately, Schenkkan’s work is a rich exploration of memory and relational dynamics. The premiere of such a significant piece in Tucson is a remarkable accomplishment, highlighting Arizona Theatre Company’s role in supporting new works and fostering artistic growth. “Bob & Jean: A Love Story” not only pays homage to the past but also reinforces the importance of storytelling in the present, making it a crucial entry in contemporary theatre.