Hexes and Heartache: A Night with Witch at Players Club of Swarthmore
- 14 hours ago
- 4 min read
by Lisa Croce
On Friday night, I had the opportunity to see the opening night performance of Witch at Player’s Club of Swarthmore. This performance took place in their 2nd stage space, which is a smaller black box space. The play leant itself to the intimacy provided by this environment. Seating was limited, so I recommend getting there early to get the best seat and view of the action. Additionally, we were not advised that there was no intermission before the show started. I would recommend letting the audience know with a sign or announcement, so that they can get their drinks, snacks and bathroom breaks in beforehand.
Witch, written by Jen Silverman, premiered in Glencoe, Illinois in September 2018. It is a modern adaptation of the 17th-century play The Witch of Edmonton by William Rowley, Thomas Dekker, and John Ford. It follows Elizabeth Sawyer, a woman branded a witch by the townspeople, who is not so easily swayed by the devil when he arrives to bargain for the souls of the villagers in the town of Edmonton.
Director, Matthew Carter, along with Assistant Director, Ali Waker, takes the audience on a fun and exciting ride. They obtained authentic, layered performances from the entire cast, and their imaginative vision unified every aspect of the production. Despite being in the black box space, the set was visually stunning, and changes between scenes were quick and efficient, with help from Stage Manager Ellen Taylor, Assistant Stage Manager Jeffrey Rega, and Stage Crew: Jen Adams and Maura Taylor. Scenic Designer Mike Sokolowski and Scenic Artist Karlayna Steward (built by Master Carpenter Connor Joyce), along with Costume Designer Arlowe Willingham, took us right to the Village of Edmonton, with its castle, grand banquet table, and Elizabeth’s humble cabin. Likewise, the beautiful feast at the grand banquet table was only one example of the many fabulous props, thanks to Prop Designer Suzette Krausen.
The production made clever use of lighting to highlight moods and emotions. Lighting Designer, Heather Timberman, nailed the use of colors and brightness to advance the narrative. Sound Designer, John B Hedges and Sound Board Operator, Michelle Kilmer, were spot on. I personally especially enjoyed the music chosen for pre-show and scene changes.
This was truly an ensemble piece, and while each actor shone on their own, when they all came together, theatre magic occurred. We are first introduced to Elizabeth Sawyer, played brilliantly by Karen R. Johnston. From her opening monologue to her final scene, Johnston portrayed the fabled outcast woman with grace, empathy, and energy. Matthew Moorhead, who played Scratch, the Devil, had amazing chemistry with every other actor on the stage, and particularly with Johnston. Moorhead portrayed this well-known character without falling into the tropes associated with it. His confidence and self-assuredness were palpable, and yet, he also allowed us to see a more vulnerable side, which was an interesting take to see any iota of vulnerability from the Devil.
The show started with a comical curtain speech, and many laughs through the beginning of the show. The first person Scratch is able to make a deal with is Cuddy Banks, portrayed beautifully by Alec Robin. Robin took us on his journey through his desire for his father’s approval, while still being true to his own wants. This allowed for significant comedy gold. No spoilers, but his performance when the Devil met his end of the bargain for Cuddy’s soul was heart-wrenching. Robin was also impressive with his dance moves, with the help of Choreographer, Danielle Marone.
Cuddy’s nemesis, Frank Thorney, played by Scott Berkowitz, somehow managed to have all the respect and love that Cuddy lacked from his father. The rivalry between the two men, as well as the psychological games they played with one another, made for brilliant theatre. Berkowitz embodied the cocky attitude of one who will step on whoever necessary to get what he wants. The fight scene between Cuddy and Frank was fantastically choreographed and performed by both gentlemen. Fight Choreographer, Quinton Alexander, assisted by Dana Liu, created a realistic and tense battle, that had me holding my breath without even realizing it.
Sir Arthur Banks, portrayed by Thomas-Robert Irvin, was your stereotypical fabled king. Most concerned about the heir to the throne, he came off as uncaring for his only son, instead favoring the waif he adopted into his life and his home. Irvin gave a stunning performance, without becoming a caricature. He had a monologue that showed his wide range of emotions; it was executed beautifully.
The last, but certainly not least, character in this story is Winnifred, played by Madison Claus. Winnifred is Frank’s secret wife, acting as a servant to Sir Arthur. Claus comedically performed this role perfectly. Her facial expressions were hilarious and kept the audience laughing; however, when it came time to show the more serious and emotional side of Winnifred, she also shone dramatically.
Overall, Witch is a great script, which was directed brilliantly and performed spectacularly by a very talented cast. You don’t want to miss this one. It is running through April 11th and tickets can be purchased at https://ci.ovationtix.com/117/production/1238879
