Dukesbay Production, Tacoma’s best theatrical buy, brings to its intimate stage John Pielmeir’s intriguing drama “Agnes of God.”
Pielmeir’s mystery tells of a young novice, Sister Agnes, and her spiritual journey when it is discovered that she has given birth to a baby who is found dead in her room. Agnes has no recollection of her pregnancy, the birth or who the father is. Therefore, the novice surmises that this is a miracle; she insists that the child was the result of a virgin conception.
“Agnes of God” leads the audience toward the search for truth and the meaning of faith. As a court appointed psychiatrist, faces off against the over-protective Mother Superior while investigating Sister Agnes’ sanity to stand trial.
The play, which is directed by Nyree Martinez, has only three characters: Dr. Martha Livingston, the psychiatrist, played by Maria Valenzuela; Laurie Sifford as Mother Superior Miriam Ruth; and Cecilia Lewis as, the novice, Sister Agnes.
All three roles are demanding for the actors playing them. Martha covers the full gamut of emotion from nurturer to antagonist, from hard nosed court psychiatrist and atheist to faith-searching healer. Agnes and the Mother Superior enact flashbacks to events at the convent. The Mother Superior must expound the possibilities of miracles while recognizing the realities of today’s world. Agnes is a beautiful but tormented soul whose abusive upbringing has affected her ability to think rationally.
“Agnes of God” plays at The Dukesbay Theater at 508 Sixth Ave. in downtown Tacoma, above the Grand Cinema March 1 through 17. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.
Because of the size of the house – about 50 seats, reservations are strongly advised. For more information, go on-line to: info or call (253) 350-7680. Tickets, which are only $15, may also be purchased at www.brownpapertickets.com.
The second floor walk-up theater may prove a challenge but the entertainment is well worth the climb. This is a thriving small theater which adds so much to Tacoma’s dramatic heritage and deserves your support. The theater’s mission is: “To promote independent theatre in Tacoma and give a voice to artists of all ethnicities.”
You must see “Agnes of God” to discover what Doctor Livingston concludes, and what will ultimately happen to Agnes.com.