‘The Lehman Trilogy’ presents a captivating tale of family and fortune at the Guthrie

“The Lehman Trilogy,” now playing at the Guthrie Theater, is an extraordinary production that brings the rich history of the Lehman Brothers to life. The 3 1/2-hour epic spans over 170 years of history, chronicling the rise and fall of the Lehman family – from a small fabric shop in Montgomery, Ala., to their transformation into the Wall Street giant Lehman Brothers, whose dramatic collapse in 2008 affected the global economy.

Directed by Arin Arbus and written by Stefano Massini, this version is skillfully adapted by Ben Power. The show features stunning performances by Edward Gero, Mark Nelson and William Sturdivant, who portray more than 50 characters. These actors transition between roles with incredible fluidity, adding a dynamic layer to the storytelling that engages the audience through every shift. It’s not just a historical piece but also a deep exploration of ambition, capitalism and the consequences of greed.

Set against a minimalistic stage, with scenic design by Marsha Ginsberg, the production’s simplicity heightens the focus on the intricate dialogue and character work. The sparse staging allows the audience to focus on the narrative, making the performances shine even brighter.

Despite the extended runtime, the play moved swiftly and kept the audience engaged throughout. The quick pace kept the energy high, making the time pass quickly. This length adds richness to the storytelling, drawing you deeper into the lives of the Lehman family as they navigate ambition, legacy and financial empires. The earlier-than-usual start time of 7 p.m. for evening performances, along with 12:30 p.m. matinees, makes the extended runtime more manageable. However, don’t forget that no food is permitted inside the theater.

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The play’s journey from Broadway, where it earned five Tony Awards, including Best Play, to Guthrie’s stage as the opening show of its 2024-2025 season is a testament to its universal appeal. Running from Sept. 14 to Oct. 13, the production offers audiences a rare opportunity to see history unfold through a minimalist set that lets the dialogue and character development shine. Sturdivant’s portrayal of Emanuel Lehman is particularly striking. He moves from humorous to heartbreaking with ease, embodying the delicate balance of tradition and ambition.

One of the play’s standout features is the cast’s ability to seamlessly switch between characters – male and female – with humor and authenticity, giving the performance an added layer of depth and playfulness. This gender-fluid portrayal injects moments of levity into the heavier historical themes, creating a dynamic contrast.

At a time when the American Dream seems fraught with contradictions, “The Lehman Trilogy” offers a timely reflection on its complexities. The play invites introspection, encouraging audiences to draw parallels between the rise and fall of Lehman Brothers and the current state of capitalism. It is a rare theatrical experience that has you thinking long after the curtain falls.

Key points

• Runtime: Approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes, including two intermissions
• Curtain time: 7 p.m. for evening shows, 12:30 p.m. for matinees
• Show dates: Sept. 14-Oct. 13
• Note: Food is not allowed in the theater

“The Lehman Trilogy” isn’t just a historical retelling; it’s a masterclass in storytelling that offers humor, reflection and a deep dive into the heart of what drives success – and failure – in America.

Editor’s note: This is the latest installment of Rachel’s Reviews, where Rachel Engstrom, a contributor to Eden Prairie Local News (EPLN), reviews various aspects of Eden Prairie and beyond. Have ideas for reviews? Reach out to Rachel Engstrom at Rachel.Engstrom@eplocalnews.org.