Around 25 years ago, Atlanta playwright Margaret Edson wrote “Wit,” which went on to productions in New York, performances all over the world, won the Pulitzer Prize for drama, and was adapted for television and film.
“Wit” is currently running at Actor’s Express through June 28; it is directed by Freddie Ashley. In the play, Edson explores how Dr. Vivian Bearing, an English professor, experiences the psychological journey of battling terminal metastatic ovarian cancer. She reflects on what happened in her past as she makes the decision to sign a do-not-resuscitate order.
Vivian finds great value in reading 17th-century metaphysical poet John Donne’s “holy sonnets.” At age 50, her expertise with Donne has become a legend among her college students.
Set in a research hospital in an unnamed city — Edson provides only as much biographical detail as is necessary – ”Wit” is a case of a detached examiner who becomes an increasingly needy specimen.
Director Ashley comments: “I hope that audiences will see the uplift and catharsis that comes with Vivian’s discovery of humanity and self. It is not a story about someone dying of cancer. Rather, it is a cathartic story that amplifies the importance of embracing our shared humanity.”
Actually, “Wit”is more concerned with love than coming to terms with death. Vivian reveals little about her history outside the classroom: No one, for instance, comes to see her at the hospital. She neither expects nor rejects the kindness of others. But this state of mind changes for her.
I was delighted with the superb, committed cast. In a career of high points, Carolyn Cook as Vivian holds us in the palm of her hand with an almost overpowering performance. It must be seen.
But she is not alone: We are blessed with superb work by Rob Cleveland (Dr. Kelekian), Sarah Elizabeth Wallis (Susie Monahan, R.N.), Dane Troy (Dr. Jason Posner), and Kim Ostrenko (E.M. Ashford).
In addition, there are roles double cast played by Eileen Moyo, Muhammad Khaerisman, Arden Adams, Desiree Oliver, and Austin Richardson.
“Nothing but a breath—a comma—separates life from life everlasting.” This is a quote from the play; a character is commenting on Donne’s famous “Death Be Not Proud” sonnet. I must tell you that “Wit” has stayed with me and played a few tricks with my mind after I saw it. The same may happen to you. This is first-class theatre and truly powerful work.
Get tickets and more information at actors-express.com.
