A Wrinkle in Time
By Abby Foster, TeenTix KC Press Corps Member
A Wrinkle in Time was originally published in 1962 by Farrar, Straus & Giroux and written by Madeleine L'Engle. Since then, it has been recognized around the world, and even is now a movie and plays. Recently it has been adapted by The Coterie Theatre, and stars Phoenix Storm. This adaptation of A Wrinkle in Time did a wonderful job showing every aspect of the story in a one hour play. Not only did each actor show amazing talent, but they took on each character in a beautiful way. From Meg's quiet and safe personality to Mrs. Whatsit’s, played by Erdin Schultz-Bever, outgoing and eccentric personality. Many of the characters were taken over by the “Red-Eyed man” at some point during the show. Yet Charles Wallace, played by Ceci Sellers did an exceptional job transitioning personality, and showing different emotions, when being taken over by the “Red-Eyed man” and embracing the audience in those feelings as well. Erika Baker, the props master did an amazing job creating the huge red eyed man prop, not only did it come to life, but it represented the character well. During the time Charles was overtaken by the “Red-Eyed man” he tried to get Meg to come with him because “everyone was always happy there.” Meg countered with “Maybe if you aren't unhappy sometimes you can’t be happy.” This quote really stuck and shows how you must be sad sometimes so you can truly appreciate the happiness you have in your life. This scene really enchanted and struck the audience.
I especially enjoyed how the director, Khalia Davis Philp, decided to have actors walk through the seats and audience, giving more to the setting and more for the audience to feast their eyes upon. I’d also like to recognize how each actor - excluding the actors portraying Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin as they were not background characters - was a background character at some point also. These people were Erdin Schultz-Bever, Andrea Hobley, Kisha Henry, Francisco 'Pancho' Javier Villegas and Erik J Pratt. It’s extremely impressive how easily they were able to go from one character to another so smoothly.
Not only should the actors be recognized but also the Creative Team. Justin Gannaway the costume designer did a wonderful job with the costumes. The costumes suited each character beautifully, with personality, and according to the setting. The costumes showed each character's personality and them as a whole. For example, Charles had a cleaner yellow outfit showing his smart side, with glasses with a circle and a square frame showing the lighthearted side of him. Not only were the costumes gorgeous but the set as well, created by John Dylon Rohr. The set design was beautiful and perfect for going in and out of each setting.
Overall, each aspect of the show was beautifully done and a great experience. I hope to see many of these actors in more shows and experience more beauties produced by The Coterie Theatre.
