After venturing to the second star to the right in Hub Theatre’s rollicking Peter Pan musical prequel in Peter and the Starcatcher, Hub Theatre Company of Boston kicked off its seventh season with a fierce and romantic historical drama exploring the aftermath of war and the cost of justice in Helen Edmunson’s The Clearing continuing through Saturday, April 20 at First Church Boston in Boston, Massachusetts. Tickets are available at a pay-what-you-can basis. The show contains mature themes. Click here for more information.
Photo courtesy of Hub Theatre Company of Boston
Engrossing and unpredictable, The Clearing reaches deep into the motives of loyalty and questions the very nature of what is right. Taking place during 17th century Ireland after the Nine Year’s War and directed by Daniel Bourque, The Clearing is a beautiful, forbidden love story in the thick of a tense, tumultuous landscape and a transformative piece addressing issues that resonate in today’s culture.
The Clearing has a small cast and First Church Boston’s intimate setting, without a bad seat, makes it easy to immerse yourself into this compelling fictional tale set in historical times. The Clearing’s set by Cassie Chapados has a natural, romantic flair, embellished by flowering trees, lamplight, and an open ceiling. From lace to frill to gold, Erica Desautels and Nancy Ishara’s detailed, coordinated costumes capture the atmosphere of its time while Ian Conway’s impressive sound design helps to maintain the show’s intensity.
Not knowing much about the production prior to entering the theater made the show that much more enjoyable, but should mention the great chemistry between the cast. Brashani Reece portrays Madeleine Preston, a wide-eyed and bubbly spitfire. Reece as Madeleine is charismatic, stubborn, and charming, who often cannot see past her own heart. She shares endearing, playful chemistry with Matthew Zahnzinger as naïve and adoring Robert. With smiling eyes, Zahnzinger portrays Robert with mix of smugness and gentility and the two of them together make for some of the show’s best moments. Although The Clearing is not a musical, Reece’s lovely rendition of an Irish lullaby makes for a sweet moment.
Lily Steven depicts Killaine Farrell, Madeleine’s quiet and humble companion. With a far off gaze and a shy smile, Steven as Killaine draws sympathy in her painful selflessness, always longing to live in the past. She and Reece have a sisterly connection.
Jeff Gill delivers a chilling, commanding performance as Sir Charles Sturman. With beady, wrathful eyes, his righteous and brutal practicality is only weakened by an irksome ailment. Although the entire cast is strong, his domineering presence will keep you transfixed. Robin Abrahams depicts world-weary Susaneh, her dry humor makes for a few needed laughs in this mostly serious production.
Although Helen Edmunson’s The Clearing could have been heavy handed as it addresses issues such as culture clash and the lingering resentment of post-war politics, but director Daniel Bourque’s delicate balance achieves a fascinating and enlightening day at the theatre.
Hub Theatre Company of Boston presents Tony-nominated historical drama The Clearing through Saturday, April 20 at First Church Boston, 66 Marlborough Street in Boston, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and follow Hub Theatre Company on Facebook for further updates.