Edinburgh Fringe Festival Highlights Resilience in Alaskan Earthquake Drama, “Down to Chance”
EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND – August 18, 2024 – A compelling new play, “Down to Chance,” currently running at the Pleasance Courtyard as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, is garnering praise for its gripping portrayal of the 1964 Good Friday earthquake in Alaska and the unexpected leadership of a woman thrust into a critical interaction role. The production, staged by the Cornwall, England-based Maybe You Like It theater company, breathes life into a largely forgotten moment in American history, focusing on the challenges faced by a small radio station and its staff in the immediate aftermath of the devastating natural disaster.
The play centers on Genie, a newly appointed station manager who faces immediate skepticism and outright dismissal due to her gender. Despite the prejudice, Genie quickly proves her mettle, becoming a vital source of facts and institution for a reeling alaskan population. The 1964 Good Friday earthquake, registering a magnitude of 9.2, remains the most powerful recorded earthquake in U.S. history. It struck at 5:36 PM Alaska Standard Time on March 27, 1964, causing widespread destruction across south-central Alaska, including Anchorage, Valdez, and Seward. The resulting tsunamis added to the devastation, claiming lives and destroying coastal communities. Over 130 lives were lost as a direct result of the earthquake and subsequent tsunamis.
“Down to Chance” doesn’t shy away from the societal hurdles Genie faced.The review highlights the “clear implication” that her gender was seen as a disqualification, yet she persevered, understanding “People need to know what is going on and what they need to do.” Her efforts extended beyond broadcasting, coordinating volunteer efforts to clear streets and acting as a central point of contact for independent responders like Walt Sauerbier, a ham radio operator who established crucial communication links outside of Alaska.
Adding levity to the tense situation is Dom, Genie’s inexperienced assistant, and his friend Kathleen, who attempt to fill airtime with entertainment – ranging from Everly Brothers songs to readings from Abraham Lincoln and even a chaotic game of charades.This juxtaposition of serious crisis and amateur entertainment provides much of the play’s humor.
A central dramatic tension arises when Genie learns of the possibility of a second, even larger earthquake. Facing a difficult ethical dilemma, she chooses to withhold this information from the public, fearing widespread panic and potential loss of life if the second quake doesn’t materialize. This decision sparks conflict with a military general, who questions her obligation to fully inform those relying on her broadcasts. The review notes the production skillfully leaves the audience questioning the validity of Genie’s choice.
The production’s success is also attributed to the effective sound design by Nathan May and lighting design by Finley Bettsworth, which create a palpable sense of danger despite the limitations of the small stage.
“Down to Chance” runs through August 25 at Beside at pleasance Courtyard. The play serves as a powerful reminder of the 1964 Alaskan earthquake, the resilience of the Alaskan people, and the often-overlooked contributions of women in times of crisis.
