When Madeleine L’Engle completed A Wrinkle in Time, publishers struggled with its mix of science fiction and fantasy, featuring youthful characters but mature themes. Published in 1962 after many rejections, it won the Newbery Medal and has stayed in print. James Sie’s stage adaptation at Lifeline Theatre brings the book’s imagination to life, despite carrying over some weaker elements from the novel.
Directed by Heather Currie, Manali Sunkara debuts at Lifeline as Meg Murray, a 13-year-old facing challenges at school and home. Her parents, portrayed by Victoria Cruz and Brian Tochterman, are scientists. Meg, too smart and impatient for school routines, often defends her younger brother, Charles Wallace Murray, played by Rohan Link Francisco. Their father vanished a year ago on a secret government project.
An odd encounter on a stormy night sends Meg, Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin (Sam Hook) on a quest through time and space to rescue her father and potentially save Earth. They are aided by mystical beings taking the form of Whatsit (Amanda Link), Who (Cami Stuckert), and Which (Jordan Gleaves).
The choice to have adults playing teenagers alongside a child actor introduces a slight mismatch in the portrayal. However, Francisco stands out as Charles Wallace, delivering a captivating performance as his character’s story unfolds in the second act. Sunkara sometimes struggles to make Meg’s awkwardness feel authentic, though she shares charming moments with Hook as Calvin.
Apart from the main trio, the remaining cast assumes multiple roles throughout. Link transitions from a quirky Whatsit to a menacing figure on Camazotz. Cruz portrays two different mother figures: the supportive Mrs. Murray and a frightened woman on Camazotz. She also briefly appears as the optimistic Happy Medium, gifted with second sight.
The production team at Lifeline provides a magical backdrop for the children’s adventures. Lindsay Mummert’s set design, reminiscent of Ellen Raskin’s original book cover, incorporates circles across nearly every surface. Sam Lancaster’s props continue this theme, adding orbs at key moments. Joe Griffin’s sound and Sarah Riffle’s lighting enhance the ethereal mood. Jazmin Aurora Medina’s costumes reflect the peculiar nature of the characters encountered.
The adaptation sticks closely to the source material. Although the beginning of the second act is captivating, the pace slows before ending swiftly and neatly. Both book and play use the theme “love conquers all” to conclude, which might feel simplistic given the narrative’s weighty conflict.
Nonetheless, this fantasy tale offers enduring lessons: facing evil is frightening, but action is necessary. Traits perceived as flaws might enable victory. Ultimately, A Wrinkle in Time explores themes of family, friendship, and self-acceptance, embracing the darker elements of its story.
Emily McClanathan is a freelance critic.
Review: “A Wrinkle in Time” (3 stars)
When: Through Oct. 18
Where: Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.
Running time: 2 hours
Tickets: $47 at lifelinetheatre.com or 773-761-4477
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