by Sierra Pasquale
Schenectady Civic Players‘ production of A Perfect Ganesh aims for spiritual resonance but lands squarely in the realm of cultural insensitivity. Terrence McNally’s 1993 play, centered on two American women seeking healing in India, is inherently a product of its time; a period when Western narratives often exoticised Eastern cultures. This staging exacerbates those issues by casting a non-Indian actor as Ganesha, the revered Hindu deity. This choice not only overlooks the importance of authentic representation but also reduces a deeply significant figure to a mere narrative device, perpetuating a form of cultural appropriation that is both outdated and offensive.
The production’s attempt to navigate themes of grief and self-discovery is further undermined by its lack of cultural nuance. The portrayal of India serves more as a backdrop for Western introspection than as a vibrant, complex setting in its own right. This approach reinforces a colonial gaze, where the richness of Indian culture is sidelined in favor of Western character development.
Susan Katz, Barry Streifert, Nate Beynon, and Melissa Brown in the Schenectady Civic Players production of “A Perfect Ganesh” by Terrence McNally, directed by Tom Heckert. Photo by Willie David Short V. 
Susan Katz and Melissa Brown in the Schenectady Civic Players production of “A Perfect Ganesh” by Terrence McNally, directed by Tom Heckert. Photo by Willie David Short V. 
Melissa Brown and Susan Katz in the Schenectady Civic Players production of “A Perfect Ganesh” by Terrence McNally, directed by Tom Heckert. Photo by Willie David Short V. 
Amidst these missteps, Nate Beynon’s performance (Man) emerges as a beacon of talent and versatility. Tasked with multiple roles, Beynon brings a distinct energy and depth to each character, showcasing a range that adds much-needed dynamism to the production. His ability to inhabit diverse personas with authenticity provides a rare moment of engagement in an otherwise problematic staging.
In conclusion, while A Perfect Ganesh may have been conceived with intentions of cross-cultural exploration, this particular rendition falls short by failing to engage with the cultural context it seeks to portray. The casting choices and narrative focus reflect a tone-deafness that detracts from the play’s potential impact.
A Perfect Ganesh by Terrence McNally at the Schenectady Civic Players. Director Tom Keckert, Producer Laura Graver. CAST: Susan Katz, Barry Streifert, Nate Beynon, and Melissa Brown. CREATIVE TEAM: Stage Managers Regina Baker and Beth Swallow, Set Designer Remet Kotch. Lighting Designer Joel Katz, Board Operators Stephen Henel, Marissa Lounello, Vincent James Lounello, Wig and Hair Designer John Fowler, Costumer Designer Sheena Johnson and Pat Sowle, Choreographer Rita Russell, Master Carpenter David Zwierankin, and Sound Designer Jacob Pickett.
Performance dates are Friday–Sunday (May 9-11) and Wednesday–Sunday (May 14-18). Friday and Saturday curtains are at 8 pm, Wednesday and Thursday curtains are at 7:30 pm, and Sundays are matinees only at 2:30 pm. All tickets are $25. Tickets are available online through the SCP website, by phone, or at the door, for any performance. Call 518-382-2081 or visit civicplayers.org for more information.