WEST LIBERTY, W.Va — With the winter season finally out of the way, anticipation builds for West Liberty’s spring production: The Welkin; Lucy Kirkwood’s gripping and thought-provoking drama.
Players have taken to the stage on opening night, April 16th, Wednesday at 7:30 P.M. The production will be performed the same time the next day, and then continued for the next two days at 3:00 P.M. Ticket prices were $5 for students with a student ID, $8 for students at other universities, $10 for WLU employees, and $15 for general admissions.
The production set in 1759 explores gripping themes of justice, morality, and the lives of women in 18th century England, centering on a jury that must decide the fate of a young woman accused with a capital crime. The play examines how personal biases and societal constraints can warp and manipulate peoples’ sense of justice and truth.
When asked, Director Michael Aulick explained that this production was a great choice for WLU’s spring production because of how much it has to educate theatre majors through the use of dialects, stage combat, FX, and very challenging script content.
Daisy Deaton, a senior theatre major, also explains that what makes the production so fun to work on is the challenges the production team has overcome, but that working with a large cast is very fulfilling while also diving into such deep subject material together as a team. “It’s also been great to work and play with such a great cast, especially on a show that focuses so much on women. My castmates and I have enjoyed delving into the minds of our characters, even discussing what our characters might be doing in the 21st century. It has all made The Welkin such a treat to work on as a capstone project,” she says.
This production will be working with a large ensemble cast, including, in full, Traelyn Alton, Beau Atkinsson, Makenna Berka, Alexandra Burdick, Daisy Deaton, Rowland Dodd, Chloe Derring, Charlee Dunlap, Avery Hall, Griffin Harder, Lydia Hatten, Elle Helsel, Melinda Kreisberg, Willow Peyton, Teegan Pugh, Kirsten Snatchko, Joshua Vetanze, and Grey Woods. This production will emphasize collaboration and dynamic storytelling.
The audience will be seated on stage with performers, so seating is limited to only 75. Though, to guarantee a chance to see the production, you can make reservations by calling 304-336-8277 and leaving a voicemail.
Audiences should be advised that The Welkin contains mature content including, but not limited to, depictions of violence, discussions of murder and capital punishment, and simulated bodily functions. The play includes references to sexual assault, pregnancy loss, infant death, and graphic descriptions of violence. It also portrays misogyny, class prejudice, and sizeist language reflective of 18th-century England. Some audience members may find this material distressing. Viewer discretion is advised.
Come check out The Welkin for their final showing today at 3:00 P.M.
for a dark, dramatic, and thought-provoking experience in the Kelly Theatre.
