The Mill returns to Chicago with a new theatrical adaptation of the classic Feminist short story The Yellow Wallpaper, written in the 1890s by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. This modern adaptation by Lorelei Sturm features the poetic language of the literary work brought to life using an innovative movement based staging. The Yellow Wallpaper previews tonight and tomorrow, August 22 and 23 at 7:30pm and opens Sunday, August 24, 2014 at 3pm at The Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St. in Chicago.
Run time is approximately one hour and thirty minutes.
Tickets: Brown Paper Tickets, www.brownpapertickets.com; 773-764-8317
A woman suffering from postpartum depression is prescribed the "rest cure" by her physician husband. Forbidden from reading or writing and forced into stillness, she soon becomes overwhelmed by loneliness and boredom. Her isolation drives her further from reality, leading to an obsession with the eerie wallpaper that lines her oppressive walls. Her descent into madness pays homage to Gothic horror stories while tackling the complexities of postpartum depression. The story, set in a time when men had complete control over women's mental and physical health, reminds us that, in light of recent court decisions, we still have a long way to go for women to gain agency over their own bodies. This new adaptation is movement based and experimental in style allowing for the heightened theatricality that blends classic storytelling with exciting visual spectacle.
The cast for The Yellow Wallpaper features Lorelei Sturm (The Woman) Ed Krystosek (John), and Daiva Bhandari (Jennie).
The production staff includes The Mill company members Jaclyn Biskup (Director), and Mary Ellen Reick (Stage Manager). Guest artists include Mike Durst (Lighting Design), Eleanor Kahn (Scenic Design), Steven Crissey (Costume Design), Alex Romberg (Sound Design), and Sarah Stec (Graphic Design).Videos