On top of the regular ups and downs of being in a relationship, imagine being gay at the turn of the 20th century. AND on top of that, you’re a prominent public figure fighting for a woman’s revolution. In About Face Theatre’s latest production, BULL IN A CHINA SHOP, we’re taken across the century following two women’s radical relationship.
The Women’s Revolution at About Face Theatre
In 1899, Mary Woolley became one of the first woman presidents of Mount Holyoke College and asks her girlfriend, Jeanette Marks, to come with her and teach as an English professor. Throughout their careers and life at Holyoke, they deal with a changing political landscape as they fight for higher learning and suffrage for women.
However in the midst of their movement, World War II is upon them and they must make difficult choices that could affect their personal lives as well as society itself.
Will they stay together? Or will their individual paths diverge? Only time will tell if this power couple will last and if love truly conquers all.
Stellar Cast
Our main actors Kelli Simpkins and Emjoy Gavino are fantastic to watch from their mannerisms to their night and day personalities. Director Kiera Fromm was spot on in choosing these two women as the passionate, fiery couple. They individually have their own wants and desires and we see their unique personalities. When we’re allowed into the depths of their emotions, we feel the love these two share.
Our other characters add comedic relief as an enamoured student, a punchy philosopher professor, and the conservative dean of students. Aurora Adachi-Winter, Adithi Chandrashekar, and Mary Beth Fisher take each of their spotlight moments and shine with well-timed jokes.
Stunning Visual Display
The cast moves seamlessly on a set designed by William Boles as it serves as everything from office, to a bedroom, to the outside stoop where students and professors show a little rebellion by smoking cigarettes. It’s beautifully textured with details covering every inch from the books on the shelves, to the trees, to the windows on the back wall.
There are a few choice lighting moments designed by Claire Chrzan where a rainbow floods the stage - a not so subtle nod to the LGBT community.
Story Told in Modern Context
From this reviewer's perspective, the fun part about the script of BULL IN A CHINA SHOP is though it’s set in the 20th century, the words are one hundred percent 21st century speak. It paints a clear parallel to the fight the LGBTQ+ community still experiences today. However, you to may come to think that this script suffers from so much happening in these two women’s lives that it’s hard to pack everything into one 80 minute show. We move quickly scene to scene to make sure we get the full breadth of their 40 year relationship, which means don’t blink or you might miss an important moment.
BULL IN A CHINA SHOP is a funny, dramatic, political love story. It’s a wonderful start to pride month as it captures the dynamic relationship of Mary and Jeanette as well as their uphill battle against society. BULL is an especially good pick for anyone who enjoys the story of powerful women in love.
RECOMMENDED
Note: This is now added to the Picture this Post round up of BEST PLAYS IN CHICAGO, where it will remain until the end of the run. Click here to read – Top Picks for Theater in Chicago NOW – Chicago Plays PICTURE THIS POST Loves.
When
Now through June 30
Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 pm
Sundays at 3 pm
Please note: there will be an added performance on Saturday, June 20 at 3 pm.
Where
Theater Wit
1229 W. Belmont Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
Tickets
$20-$38
Discounts available for groups of 10 or more. Tickets are currently available at the About Face Theatre website ,by calling (773) 975-8150, or in person at Theater Wit Box Office.
Photos
Michael Brosilow
CAST
Kelli Simpkins
Aurora Adachi-Winter
Adithi Chandrashekar
Mary Beth Fisher
Emjoy Gavino
CREATIVE
Keira Fromm
William Boles
Mieka Van Der Ploeg
Claire Chrzan
Eric Backus
Jamie Karas
Catherine Allen
Helen Lattyak
Andrea Enger
Note: An excerpt of this review appears in Theatre in Chicago
About the Author
Alexis is a theater reviewer, travel bug, media specialist, and burger & beer enthusiast. During the day she works in the advertising business as a senior communications designer. When night falls, or when she can escape to New York, she’s hitting the theaters to see as many shows as she can. And whenever she’s not at her desk or in the audience, she’s out seeking the best burger and beer offerings in Chicago.
Editor's Note: Click here to read more Picture this Post articles by Alexis Bugajski
