When Madeleine L’Engle wrote “A Wrinkle in Time,” publishers struggled to categorize its mix of science fiction and fantasy with young characters yet complex themes. After numerous rejections, the novel was published in 1962, won the Newbery Medal, and has remained continuously available. James Sie’s stage adaptation, now playing at Lifeline Theatre, encapsulates the book’s whimsy and wonder, although some weaker elements from the original persist in the play.
A Daring Adaptation
Directed by Heather Currie, the production features Manali Sunkara as Meg Murray, a 13-year-old facing challenges at school and home. Meg’s impatience with routine math procedures and her tendency to defend her brother Charles Wallace Murray (Rohan Link Francisco) are central to her character. Her father’s mysterious disappearance during a secret government mission fuels her determination.
One stormy night, Meg, Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin (Sam Hook) are drawn into a mission across time and space to rescue her father and potentially save Earth. Guided by three ethereal beings in human guise—Whatsit (Amanda Link), Who (Cami Stuckert), and Which (Jordan Gleaves)—the journey unfolds.
Acting and Cast Dynamics
While casting adults Sunkara and Hook as teenagers creates a slight dissonance next to the young Francisco, his portrayal of Charles Wallace captivates with humor and depth. Sunkara finds moments of sincerity in Meg’s awkwardness, and her interactions with Hook as Calvin bring genuine warmth.
The supporting cast takes on multiple roles. Amanda Link’s transformation on Camazotz highlights her versatility, and Victoria Cruz navigates dual maternal roles with skill, offering warmth as Meg’s mother and tension as a Camazotzian parent, with a brief but memorable turn as the Happy Medium.
Visual and Thematic Elements
The production team crafts a magical environment. The set, designed by Lindsay Mummert, echoes Ellen Raskin’s first-edition cover with circular motifs. Sam Lancaster’s prop orbs and the sound and lighting by Joe Griffin and Sarah Riffle enhance the mystical setting. Jazmin Aurora Medina’s costumes reflect the eccentric, menacing characters.
Stagecraft and Script
Having recently read the book, I was intrigued by Lifeline’s interpretation, especially on Camazotz. Parallels to Orwellian themes are vivid, employing puppets by Saskia Bakker and synchronized dialogue to illustrate its rigid society. Though effective, some chilling imagery from the novel is rendered abstract here.
Sie’s script remains faithful to L’Engle’s work. However, after a compelling start to the second act, the pacing slackens before an overly neat conclusion. The “love conquers all” motif feels simplistic given the stakes, yet the narrative conveys lasting messages. It reassures audiences that fear is natural but action is vital, and perceived flaws can be strengths in adversity.
Conclusion
Ultimately, “A Wrinkle in Time” explores family, friendship, and self-acceptance, willing to embrace its darker, peculiar side along the way.
Emily McClanathan is a freelance critic.
Review: “A Wrinkle in Time” (3 stars)
When: Through Oct. 18
Where: Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.
Running time: 2 hours
Tickets: $47 at lifelinetheatre.com or 773-761-4477