Exploration of Courage and Conflict in Erika Sheffer’s Play “Vladimir”

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Erika Sheffer’s play Vladimir, staged in 2024, intertwines political thriller elements with family drama to scrutinize the boundaries of courage and cowardice as authoritarianism encroaches upon ordinary lives. Directed by Lou Contey, this Midwest premiere at Shattered Globe Theatre depicts simple yet powerful actions by everyday people. The result is an array of well-developed character studies that evoke admiration, empathy, and sometimes disgust.

Set in the early 2000s, the play incorporates historical context, highlighting President Putin’s consolidation of power and the Second Chechen War. The main character, Raisa “Raya” Bobrinskaya, is portrayed by Rebecca Jordan as a resolute investigative journalist and war correspondent who has survived an attempted assassination. Undeterred, she proposes a new exposé to her editor, Kostya, played by Adam Schulmerich. It promises to reveal a financial scandal tracing back to high levels in the Kremlin.

Sheffer, raised in Brooklyn and now based in Los Angeles, crafted the play for American audiences. Though it’s rooted in Russian political history, the story’s relevance extends beyond its setting. With intricate character dynamics, Sheffer presents a cautionary tale reflecting current global tensions. Her American character, Jim, depicted by Drew Schad as a brash finance enthusiast, displays vulnerability, prompting reflection on the universality of the issues addressed.

Raya’s determination contrasts with that of her daughter, Galina, played by Juliana Liscio. The tension between Galina’s concerns for her mother’s safety and her own life events, like her upcoming wedding, is palpable. While Raya’s unwavering commitment can be polarizing, the play could delve further into the internal conflict between her personal and professional responsibilities.

Another compelling character is Yevgeny, portrayed by Tristan Odenkirk, who shows remarkable character development. A Jewish accountant from Ukraine, expecting his first child, he seems an unlikely hero. Yet, when Raya seeks his help to track corruption, his journey to find inner strength captivates audiences. Odenkirk’s performance blends nuanced emotion with natural comedic flair, drawing on his familial connection to renowned actor Bob Odenkirk.

Supporting characters further illustrate the varied responses to life under authoritarian rule. Kostya, once an inspiration for Raya’s career, gradually makes choices diverging from hers. As her editor and long-time friend, he embodies the conflict between journalistic ideals and self-preservation. Meanwhile, Jim’s character challenges viewers to consider their own potential actions under pressure, as his bravado fails him when needed most.

The production is elevated by Joe Schermoly’s scenic design, presenting a stark, concrete-gray backdrop. Lou Contey transforms scene changes into captivating mini-vignettes, employing actors in black masks with red flashlights. Christopher Kriz’s intense, rhythmic score amplifies the atmosphere of constant surveillance. Set pieces by Nga Sze Chan further emphasize the sparse environment these characters endure, reliant on limited comforts.

Besides its central narrative, Vladimir prompts audiences to question moral simplicity. A standout character is a young Chechen woman, played by Kseniya Janyan, whose story remains purposefully ambiguous. Her poignant lines challenge audiences to ponder whose suffering they recognize and what it takes to disrupt indifference. The play probes deeper into universal issues, urging introspection on courage and justice.