David Mamet’s seminal play Glengarry Glen Ross returns to Broadway 41 years after its original debut in March 1984, with a new production that brings fresh perspectives to the classic drama. The revival, directed by Patrick Marber, features a talented cast, including Bob Odenkirk as Shelley “The Machine” Levene and Kieran Culkin as Ricky Roma.
Despite being set in the early 80s, this new production doesn’t stray too far from Mamet’s original vision. The four main characters – salesmen struggling to find leads in a cutthroat industry – remain largely unchanged. However, with Odenkirk’s energetic performance and Burr’s standup-rant rhythms, the script remains surprisingly funny.
The pacing of the show is also noteworthy, with some scenes clocking in at just 39 minutes flat. This quick pace is amplified by Donald Webber Jr.’s standout performance as office manager John Williamson, bringing a new level of tension to the already-charged interactions between salesmen.
What’s striking about this revival is how it updates Mamet’s themes for modern audiences. The play still tackles the tragedy of men struggling to make ends meet in a decaying capitalist system, but with Culkin’s Roma being tailored to his strengths as an Oscar-winning actor. This new take on the character brings a fresh spin to the classic play.
While some may lament the revival’s limited engagement and competition from iconic film adaptations, this production proves that Glengarry Glen Ross remains a powerful and enduring work of theater. With its talented cast and expert direction, this revival is a must-see for fans of Mamet’s masterpiece.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2025/apr/01/glengarry-glen-ross-broadway-review