A One-Act Play that will Flow Through all the Fibers in Your Heart
One of the many beautiful things about art is wondering what the artist was thinking when creating it. In the case of Canadian playwright Stephen Massicotte and his play Mary’s Wedding, I would like to think there was a lot of heart, consideration, and empathy for many of the happenings. Scripps Ranch’s current production is a one-act, two-hander with all the feels.
Mary (Lilliana Talwatte) is a British immigrant living in the Canadian prairies. During a thunderstorm, she meets Charlie (Dennis O’Connor) in a barn. Sparks fly, and they begin a secret courtship. It is 1914, and Charlie joins the front lines of World War I. The story goes back and forth within a dream Mary has with them meeting, Charlie in combat, and a wedding.
Dixon Fish created a beautiful maple wood set design, built by John Owen and painted by Duane McGregor, with a sliding door and horses that showcased the magic of theatre and invited the imagination. Taylor Oxley’s movement direction also prompted this, as both actors moved in sync while riding and dismounting the scenic horses. Marc Akiyama’s sound also contributed to the magic with realistic effects that went from soft to booming.
Lilliana Talwatte intermittently switches roles between Maria and Sergeant Flowerdew, Charlie’s commanding officer. Talwatte managed a significant alternation between roles, precisely separating the two with minimal props, along with a jacket courtesy of Dawn Fuller-Korinek’s costume design. Sammy Webster’s lighting accentuated each moment and guided the audience through the happenings. Dennis O’Connor delivered a tender and naive Charlie that was captivating, and both actors created a heartfelt atmosphere on stage—a reflection of Kate Rose Reynolds’ direction that flowed smoothly while taking its time to breathe.
Kandace Crystal’s intimacy direction likewise shone as Talwatte and O’Connor glided through the scenes lightly.
A fact that adds to the feels is that Sergeant Flowerdew is based on militiaman and army officer Gordon Muriel Flowerdew. Mary’s Wedding is one of those plays that will prompt a range of emotions, from giggles to tears, as you witness these two lovebirds’ story with one of the most creative set designs at Scripps Ranch Theatre. It reminded me of Warhorse.
Timothy Benson is the stage manager for this play.
Currently playing until April 27. For more information, click HERE.
Check out our interview with Kate Rose Reynolds.
