Context & Background: The Specter of 2008 and the Father of Modern Economics

The year 2008 is seared into the collective memory of a generation. The collapse of Lehman Brothers, the near-meltdown of global financial markets, and the subsequent Great Recession left an indelible mark on economies and societies worldwide. It was a period of immense anxiety, of bailouts and austerity, of finger-pointing and a profound questioning of the systems that had led to such widespread devastation. “Make It Happen” chooses this turbulent moment as its thematic bedrock, seeking to understand not just what happened, but why, and what lessons, if any, were truly learned.

At the heart of this exploration, paradoxically, is Adam Smith. The Scottish economist, best known for his seminal 1776 work “The Wealth of Nations,” is often hailed as the father of modern economics. His theories on free markets, the division of labor, and the “invisible hand” – the idea that individuals pursuing their own self-interest inadvertently benefit society – have become cornerstones of capitalist thought. Yet, the play’s premise suggests that even the most brilliant minds might find their theories strained, or even contradicted, by the messy realities of financial speculation and unchecked greed.

Brian Cox, a Scottish actor with a deep connection to his heritage, brings a unique resonance to the role of Smith. His own public persona often carries an air of forthrightness and intellectual rigor, making him a natural fit to inhabit the spirit of one of history’s most influential thinkers. The choice to present Smith as a ghost adds a layer of meta-commentary. He is no longer an active participant in the economic fray, but an observer, a commentator, perhaps even a judgmental spirit, witnessing the unfolding of his own legacy through the lens of a crisis that seems to defy his foundational principles.

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival, provides an ideal platform for a play like “Make It Happen.” Known for its daring, innovative, and often politically charged productions, the Fringe allows for theatrical experiments that might not find a home in more conventional settings. The festival’s international audience and its reputation for fostering critical dialogue make it a fertile ground for a play that tackles such a significant and enduring economic event.

In-Depth Analysis: Cox’s Smith as a Guiding, Ghostly Light

The true brilliance of “Make It Happen,” according to the New York Times’ assessment, lies in Brian Cox’s portrayal of Adam Smith. It is not merely an intellectual exercise of reciting economic principles; it is a deeply human performance that grapples with the complex legacy of Smith’s ideas. Cox, renowned for his ability to convey immense power and vulnerability, likely navigates the spectral Smith with a nuanced touch.

One can imagine Cox’s Smith as a figure both detached and deeply invested. Detached from the day-to-day machinations of the market, yet invested in the ethical and societal implications of its failures. His ghostliness allows him to transcend the linear narrative, perhaps appearing at critical junctures to offer commentary, to question the motivations of the living characters, or even to lament the perversion of his own carefully constructed theories. The “hauntingly good” description suggests a performance that lingers, that provokes thought and emotion, and that imbues the abstract concepts of economics with a palpable presence.

The play’s success hinges on its ability to translate the often-dry subject of financial markets into compelling dramatic material. By casting a ghost, the playwright and director have an opportunity to create a character who can directly address the audience, break the fourth wall, and offer a more intimate, perhaps even confessional, perspective on the events of 2008. Cox’s considerable stage and screen experience would enable him to masterfully exploit these dramatic possibilities.

Furthermore, the juxtaposition of the intellectual rigor of Adam Smith with the chaotic, often irrational behavior that characterized the lead-up to the 2008 crisis creates inherent dramatic tension. How does Smith, the architect of order, react to the architects of chaos? Does he find himself bewildered, disappointed, or perhaps even resigned? Cox’s interpretation of these questions will be crucial to the play’s overall impact. His ability to convey a spectrum of emotions, from intellectual curiosity to profound sadness, will be key to making Smith more than just a mouthpiece for economic theories.

The play likely uses the ghost of Smith to provide a historical and philosophical lens through which the audience can view the events of 2008. He might offer insights into the historical evolution of capitalism, drawing parallels to earlier economic booms and busts. He could also serve as a moral compass, prompting reflection on the ethical responsibilities of those in power and the broader societal consequences of unchecked financial ambition.

The “bright spot” designation implies that while the play as a whole may be ambitious and thought-provoking, it is Cox’s performance that truly elevates it. This suggests that the script might present challenges in making the economic subject matter accessible and dramatically engaging, but Cox’s charisma and acting prowess bridge that gap. He likely provides the emotional core and the intellectual anchor that holds the audience’s attention amidst potentially complex exposition.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Performance and the Production

Based on the available information, we can infer several potential pros and cons of “Make It Happen,” with Brian Cox’s performance being a significant factor in both.

Pros:

• Brian Cox’s Star Power and Performance: The presence of a globally recognized actor like Brian Cox is an undeniable draw. His reputation for delivering powerful, nuanced performances suggests that his portrayal of Adam Smith will be compelling and insightful, likely elevating the entire production. The description “hauntingly good” indicates a performance that is both memorable and emotionally resonant.
• Timely and Relevant Subject Matter: The 2008 banking crisis remains a potent subject, with its consequences still felt today. A play that tackles this event head-on offers an opportunity for audiences to engage with complex issues in a dramatic and accessible format. The exploration of capitalism’s inherent vulnerabilities is a perpetual source of theatrical and intellectual interest.
• Unique Conceptual Approach: The use of Adam Smith’s ghost as a narrative device is an inspired and thought-provoking concept. It allows for a unique perspective on historical events and provides a framework for discussing enduring economic philosophies. This intellectual playfulness can make the subject matter more engaging.
• Potential for Intellectual Engagement: By bringing Adam Smith into the conversation, the play has the potential to spark deeper reflection on the principles of economics, the nature of markets, and the societal impact of financial decisions. This can appeal to audiences seeking more than just entertainment.
• Edinburgh Fringe Platform: The Fringe offers a platform for bold, experimental theater. This allows “Make It Happen” to take risks and explore its ambitious themes in a setting that encourages critical discussion and artistic innovation.

Cons:

• Accessibility of Subject Matter: Financial crises and economic theories can be inherently complex and difficult to dramatize effectively. The play may struggle to make these topics accessible and engaging for a broad audience, potentially alienating those without prior knowledge.
• Balancing Philosophy and Drama: The challenge for any play dealing with such intellectual concepts is to maintain a strong dramatic arc. There’s a risk that the philosophical discussions could overshadow the character development and narrative momentum, leading to a production that feels more like a lecture than a play.
• Potential for One-Dimensionality: While Cox is a master of conveying complexity, the character of Adam Smith, even as a ghost, could be at risk of becoming a mere mouthpiece for exposition or critique, rather than a fully realized dramatic entity. The success will depend on how well the script fleshes out his spectral presence.
• Risk of Preachiness: A play that tackles significant socio-economic issues can sometimes veer into didacticism. The challenge will be to present the arguments and critiques in a way that feels organic to the drama and avoids sounding overly preachy or judgmental.
• Dependence on Cox’s Performance: While Cox is a massive asset, the review’s description of him as a “bright spot” might also suggest that other elements of the production, such as the supporting cast or the staging, may not be as strong. The play might be heavily reliant on Cox to carry the narrative weight.

Key Takeaways

• Brian Cox delivers a “hauntingly good” performance as the ghost of Adam Smith in the new play “Make It Happen.”
• The play explores the 2008 global banking crisis, using the iconic philosopher as a spectral guide and commentator.
• Cox’s portrayal is highlighted as a significant strength, providing gravitas and emotional depth to a complex subject.
• The production tackles timely economic issues, aiming to engage audiences with the underlying principles and consequences of financial systems.
• The conceptual use of Adam Smith’s ghost offers a unique perspective and potential for intellectual engagement.
• The Edinburgh Festival Fringe provides a fitting platform for this ambitious and potentially provocative theatrical exploration.
• The play’s success likely hinges on its ability to balance intellectual discourse with compelling dramatic storytelling, with Cox’s performance being a crucial anchor.

Future Outlook: The Enduring Relevance of Economic Specters

“Make It Happen,” with Brian Cox at its helm, has the potential to transcend its immediate run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The enduring relevance of the 2008 financial crisis and the continued debate surrounding the principles of capitalism ensure that the play’s themes will resonate with audiences for years to come. If the production is successful in translating its complex subject matter into a captivating theatrical experience, it could see further runs in major theatrical hubs.

The success of this play could also inspire further theatrical explorations of economic history and theory. As societies continue to grapple with issues of inequality, market volatility, and the ethical responsibilities of corporations and governments, plays that offer nuanced perspectives and engage with foundational economic thought will likely find receptive audiences.

Brian Cox’s willingness to tackle such intellectually demanding material in a theatrical setting also signals a broader trend of respected actors seeking out challenging roles that engage with contemporary issues. This bodes well for the future of theater as a medium for critical discourse and intellectual exploration. The “ghost of Adam Smith” might just be the harbinger of a new wave of economically-minded dramas that use historical figures and events to illuminate our present dilemmas.

Call to Action: Witness the Specter of Smith

For those fortunate enough to be in Edinburgh during the festival run of “Make It Happen,” this production offers a rare opportunity to witness Brian Cox in a role that promises to be both intellectually stimulating and emotionally captivating. Don’t miss the chance to see the “Succession” star embody the ghost of Adam Smith and grapple with the specters of the 2008 financial crisis.

If you are a theater enthusiast, a student of economics, or simply someone interested in the complex forces that shape our world, securing tickets for “Make It Happen” is highly recommended. This is more than just a play; it is a provocative dialogue with history, philosophy, and the very foundations of our economic reality, anchored by a performance that is already being hailed as exceptional. Experience the brilliance of Brian Cox as he makes the ghost of Adam Smith haunt the stage, and perhaps, haunt your own understanding of how we got here and where we are headed.