When Madeleine L’Engle completed “A Wrinkle in Time,” publishers struggled to categorize her work. The novel, an unusual blend of science fiction and fantasy, features adolescent characters and intense themes. After numerous rejections, it was published in 1962, won the Newbery Medal, and continues to be printed. Now, James Sie has translated the book into a stage play at Lifeline Theatre, capturing the whimsical and pioneering spirit of L’Engle’s novel, while also highlighting some weaker elements that carry over from the original story.
Cast and Direction
Under Heather Currie’s direction, Manali Sunkara makes her Lifeline debut as Meg Murray, a 13-year-old grappling with challenges at home and school. Meg, the daughter of scientists (Victoria Cruz and Brian Tochterman), struggles with the tedious rules of her math class due to her intelligence and impatience. She is protective of her younger brother, Charles Wallace Murray (Rohan Link Francisco), often willing to fight those who bully him. Complicating her life, Meg’s father vanished nearly a year ago while on a confidential government assignment.
A mysterious meeting on a stormy night propels Meg, Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin (Sam Hook) into a time-and-space journey to rescue her father, potentially saving Earth in the process. They’re guided by three peculiar beings, Whatsit (Amanda Link), Who (Cami Stuckert), and Which (Jordan Gleaves), taking on terrestrial forms.
The casting of adults (Sunkara and Hook) as teenagers alongside Francisco, a young actor, creates a mismatch. Francisco stands out with his portrayal of the insightful Charles Wallace, showcasing broad acting range as his character’s journey intensifies. Sunkara sometimes forces Meg’s awkwardness; however, she shares charming moments with Hook as fellow outsider Calvin.
Other cast members take on multiple roles with versatility. Link shifts from the endearing Whatsit to a menacing presence on Camazotz. Cruz adeptly contrasts Meg’s nurturing mother with a fearful Camazotzian parent subject to oppressive rule. Cruz briefly appears as the cheerful and visionary Happy Medium.
Production Design
Lifeline’s creative team crafts an enchanting environment for the children’s adventures. Lindsay Mummert’s set design, possibly inspired by the original novel’s cover by Ellen Raskin, uses circles in its mauve setting accented with gold. Props designer Sam Lancaster uses orbs meaningfully throughout crucial scenes. Joe Griffin’s sound and Sarah Riffle’s lighting contribute to the mystical atmosphere, while Jazmin Aurora Medina’s costumes reflect the unique and threatening creatures the characters encounter.
Thematic Exploration
Sie’s script remains close to the book, holding steady through engaging scenes and lesser moments alike. After a compelling start in the second act, pacing slows before concluding swiftly with a neat finish. Both the novel and the play convey how love triumphs in grand battles between good and evil, though the resolution can feel simplistic.
Despite its simplicity, the story offers enduring wisdom for all ages: confronting fear is challenging but necessary, and qualities perceived as flaws may be strengths in critical moments. “A Wrinkle in Time” fundamentally deals with themes of family, friendship, and self-acceptance and embraces a touch of darkness and peculiarity.
Emily McClanathan, a freelance critic.
Review: “A Wrinkle in Time” (3 stars)
When: Until Oct. 18
Where: Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.
Duration: 2 hours
Tickets: $47 at lifelinetheatre.com or call 773-761-4477