UPlayers' Emma's Child a heart-felt production
By Alanna Magri
Lance Writer
October 28, 2009
 When a mother is torn between her husband and her child, she forces herself to believe that she can make everything work in the University Players latest production, Emma’s Child.
After 15 years of trying to bear a child, conservative Jean Farrell (Alexandra Johnson), and husband Henry (Mischa Aravena) are ready to adopt.
The show begins with a visit from the adoption agency’s representative Tess (Ashley Steeves), a joyful, kind, and joking character. The couple nervously goes though the motions of adoption, realizing that the characteristics that they want for their child veer away from each other.
An opportunity arises when Emma (Katie Ribout), a young punk-rocker, gives birth to her baby boy, Robin.
Born with an incurable neurological condition, hydrocephalus, Robin is unable to receive surgical treatment and is the centre of concern for Jean.
Jean and Henry’s marriage is put to the test when Jean looks positively upon Robin, while Henry looks out for the well-being of himself and Jean. The two are distanced upon the decision of adoption, straining their marriage.
Best friend of Jean, colorful and hilarious Fran (Darwin Lyons-Fisher), shows for a visit. Wanting to provide moral support, Fran decides to meet Robin, but is sure not to pick sides. Although she cherishes Robin, she too agrees with Henry that Jean needs to consider her options.
As if a medical condition and lack of support from her husband is not enough for Jean, Vivien Rademacher (Lauren Binhammer) appears.
Being persistent and somewhat stubborn, Vivien, an inspector for the adoption agency, says that too many red flags are raised with the Farrell couple. Being that Jean is not the biological mother, Vivian asks her not to see the child again.
Bickering like a married couple to provide comic relief are doctors assistants Laurence (Christopher Moore), a flamboyant and sarcastic man, and Mary Jo (Victoria Upquahart), a nerdy young lady who can never click into her serious side.
The play is not all serious, however. The second act presents two scenes set in the Michigan Woods, which serve as a getaway for confused Henry and his best friend Sam (Andrew Anthony).
Male bonding is in session while the two take shots, complain about their women, and drop multiple F-bombs that sent the audience into tear-creating laughter.
Emma’s Child shows the talent of all involved. What made the production worth seeing was the ability of the actors to display emotions that touched the audience members.
The stage setup was simplistic and effective. Setup transitions went with ease and were unnoticed by audience members.
Some may find this play a bit hard to follow since the scenes do not go in chronological order, flashing forward or going backward.
This will leave you wondering, but it is one of those situations where everything ties together in the end. If you are confused, have hope, you will soon realize that it all makes sense.
Emma’s Child will be showcased at the Essex Hall Theatre until Nov. 1.
|
