Seduction of the Innocent

Daydream Theatre Company's "Seduction of the Innocent" is an enthralling look at one man's battle against the comic book industry. The outstanding acting and writing has resulted in one of the year's most original and unique productions.

Writer/director Lenny Schwartz ("Accidental Incest") tells the true story of Fredric Wertham, a German-born child psychiatrist who believed the sexual and violent images in comic books were a threat to the emotional development of American youth in the 1940s.

"Seduction of the Innocent" was the title of Wertham's best-selling book about the corrupting influence of comics. Wertham also testified as part of a Congressional inquiry into the comic book industry. Wertham believed Batman and Robin were gay and criticized Wonder Woman for turning girls into lesbians.

Wertham's influence and notoriety resulted in the creation of the Comics Code, which regulated the content of comics.

Michael Thurber ("The Inside of His Severed Head") plays Wertham in an amazing performance. Thurber could have easily slid into a shallow caricature but instead creates a textured portrayal of a man who believed he was trying to protect children through his crusade.

Rain Blair Jolicoeur, who was simply magnificent as Joan of Arc in "Saint Joan," delivers a sparkling turn as Diana, a stand-in for Wonder Woman.

Jolicoeur is witty and sarcastic as she provides a running commentary on Wertham's condemnation of comics.

Geoff White ("And Then There Were None") shows up as the infamous serial killer Albert Fish, who haunts Wertham. White is quietly terrifying as this monstrous madman and his interactions with Thurber are some of the most powerful moments in the show.

I also liked Dave Almeida as comics publisher William Gaines, a man who takes great pride in the work his company produces. Gaines expresses his disgust with Wertham after his testimony before Congress.

Schwartz has explored the world of comic book artists before with "Co-Creator" and "Ditko." This time, Schwartz shows the impact comics had on American society and the fear one man spread about them. We hear about comics being collected and burned. The damage Wertham did to the comic book industry was long-lasting. Even when an angry woman berates Wertham for the harm he has inflicted on comic book artists and writers, he remains unapologetic about his actions.

Is "Seduction of the Innocent" an indictment of self-righteous moralists who attempt to ban art they don't understand? Or is it about the responsibility of the entertainment industry to not promote sex and violence to our youth?

Schwartz honors the work of the comic book artists and writers as well as the affection millions of people have for these legendary icons. Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, The Incredible Hulk, Black Panther, and many others have become of our national heritage. Sadly, what Wertham never could quite understand was the reality that their fans were celebrating heroism, not depravity.

"Seduction of the Innocent" runs through November 23. Daydream Theatre Company. RISE Playhouse. 142 Clinton St. Woonsocket, RI. For tickets, go to http://www.ristage.org.