Straight Line Crazy - 2022 - 7/10
Theatrical production of Robert Moses, emperor of inner city expressways and urban renewal.
First half deals with early, somewhat idealistic days negotiating with powerful Long Island estates, the Vanderbilts, the Morgans, etc … Then wheeling-dealing with Governor Al Smith.
Second half is the attempt to ram a project through Washington Square (the Village), where he encounters ferocious, organized resistance spearheaded by Jane Jacobs.
Moses’ legacy endures to this day. The thought that road congestion can be solved with more roads, wider roads.
Understanding urban planning might enhance enjoyment of this play, though it is not necessary.
Ralph Fiennes casts a spell as the visionary who grows entrenched, then autocratic.
