Frost/Nixon Is a Compelling Drama

Frost/Nixon, which focuses on interviews British journalist David Frost conducted with President Richard Nixon in the 1970s, is a fascinating look at a very flawed man. In 1974, Nixon resigned from office following the Watergate scandal. The break-in at the Democratic National Committee offices and his administration’s cover-up of the crime led to congressional hearings and the threat of impeachment. Despite being pardoned by President Gerald Ford for his involvement in Watergate, Nixon was still widely loathed by most of the American public.

When Frost approaches Nixon about a television interview, Nixon sees a chance at redemption, and Frost is excited by the opportunity to grill Nixon about Watergate in front of an audience of several million viewers. The core of the story is the face-off between these two very different men. Nixon is genial and skilled at depicting himself in a favorable light. Frost, diminutive and unfailingly polite, seems to be in way over his head when questioning Nixon. Frost’s producers grow impatient with his laid-back style and push him to get Nixon to confess to his crimes. They want Frost to force Nixon into offering an apology to the American people for betraying their trust. During a late night phone call, Nixon tells Frost he always wanted to be liked and rails against the people who want to tear him down.

As played by Geoff Leatham, Nixon comes across as likable and even sympathetic. Leatham bears a striking resemblance to the real man. He captures Nixon’s vocal inflections, his mannerisms, and projects a heartfelt vulnerability. It is an absolutely brilliant performance. Leatham’s co-star Christopher Shane Crider-Plonka also shines as Frost, who is put under enormous pressure to break Nixon.

Frost/Nixon shines a light on journalism, the quest for truth, and the complexity of human nature. Playwright Peter Morgan expertly shows how politicians can become entertainers when exposed to the television cameras and lights. At one point, Nixon tells Frost he needs to wipe the perspiration from his lip before giving an answer to a question. Nixon explains his visible sweat and five o’clock shadow were a detriment in his televised debate with John F. Kennedy, who defeated him in the 1960 election. He is determined not to make the same mistake twice.

Director Michael Ducharme staged the play in the round, which allows the audience to see these two larger-than-life figures up-close as they engage in a meeting of minds.

Richard Nixon accomplished some amazing things in his time as President, yet he will always be remembered for a very bad thing. He reached for greatness but was undone by his own demons. That’s the real tragedy.

Frost/Nixon runs through February 28. Counter-Productions Theatre Company. AS220’s Black Box, 95 Empire St. Providence. For tickets, go to www.cptcri.com.