By Isaac Palmer

BLOOD, BLOOD, and BLOOD! JCCC put on a play like no other before. This hilarious, in-depth, bloody performance put many in shock, and made many hope it would never end, as it was well acted and overall captivating. Oh, and did I mention blood? That’s right, and lots of it. Though it obviously was just a mix of chocolate syrup, aloe, and paint, it still seemed life-like as it put you into the perspective of watching a real-life story unfold. 

The Lieutenant of Inishmore is a darker kind of comedy play written by Martin McDonagh. The story is set on the remote Irish island of Inishmore and centers around Padraic, a fanatic and violent member of the Irish Liberation Army (IRA). As this member returns home after a stint of torturing prisoners and bombing chip shops in Northern Ireland, he finds that his beloved cat, Wee Thomas, has been killed… 

His devotion to the cat is immense, and he is devastated by the loss. This sets off a series of chaotic events as he seeks revenge, convinced that someone must pay for the death of his feline companion. Meanwhile, other characters on the island become entangled in the escalating violence and absurd misunderstandings.

The play is full of dark humor, exploring themes of violence, loyalty, and absurdity. It satirizes both the political turmoil in Ireland, and the extremities of devotion to personal causes, blending farce with moments of brutal violence. Ultimately, it highlights the absurdity of both political extremism and human behavior, all while maintaining a dark, comedic tone.

From others who watched this performance, they rated it highly. With the highest at “one million out of 10” and at the lowest an “eight out of 10.” making this play a favorite among spectators. And with no doubt, the credit cannot be only given to the plot. The actors were the most dedicated and hard-working cast, and because of that, it only adds to the experience. 

To top it all off, the area in which the play was conducted was one that most might not expect, it was a small black box that could hold just barely over 100 viewers. Because of this, the “black box” theater gives a personal connection and a literal close look at the story. It was truly “jaw-dropping” as the show has you looking at the stage, to very well just to the right of you. The actors roam freely among the entire room, giving you a performance which will be a moment many will never forget. 

If you’re wishing to go see this play yourself, you’re in luck because there may still be time. In the Bodker Black Box Theatre in the Midwest Trust Center, there will be more performances, Feb. 28 through March 2. The remaining performances will be on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., as well as Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are free and first come, first served.