"The Spiritualist," the new play by Crowded Kitchen through June 19t at the IceHouse in Bethlehem presents a thought-provoking premise.
Set in London at the end of World War II and the beginning of the influenza pandemic of 1918, "The Spiritualist", written and directed by Ara Barlieb, looks at why people are so willing to believe that someone can contact their loved ones after death.
Much of the play takes place at two of Madam Tasayas seances, where much is not as it seems.
Sebastian, played with brash assurance by David Oswald, has lost his wife and children to influenza and, although initially dubious, allows himself to get caught up in the spectacle of the séance.
He is accompanied by his sister-in-law Gwendoline (a headstrong Trish Cipoletti) who wears her unabashed skepticism on her sleeve. However, a surprise twist threatens her certainty and Cipoletti ably conveys Gwendolines vacillating.
Sharon Ferry embraces the persona of Madam Tasaya through her expressive voice and gestures as she cajoles the spirits to speak to her. As Tasayas unyielding major-domo Madam Crispin, Pam Wallace is stern and authoritative, as she quells any sign of dissent.
Another of Tasayas cohorts is the seemingly ambivalent Col. Boyle, whose deceptive actions draw in both Sebastian and Gwendoline. Michael Sheridan makes Boyle an enigma, seeming to play both sides for an unknown purpose.
Colleen Popper is heartbreaking as a desperate young woman who has lost her child and will do (or believe) anything to speak to her.
Jerry Brucker and Brian Wendt also add as true believers of Madame Tasayas abilities.
Dawn Daignault is a clear-eyed and capable Charlotte Webster, an investigator sent to unmask Madame Tasaya; however she is undone by the fast-talking of Gwendoline and the manipulation of Madame Tasaya herself.
A screen behind the stage expands on some of the concepts explored in the play and the set is simple, but works well for its purpose. The IceHouse, steeped in history from the time period serves as a perfect venue.
"The Spiritualist" ultimately offers interesting ideas and compelling situations, but is overall uneven.
The two-act play will include pre-show discussions by local magicians Bruce Ward and Joseph Keppel.
Masks are optional.
Performances are 8 p.m. June 3-4, 10-11 and 17, and 2 p.m. June 5, 12 and 19 at Charles A. Brown IceHouse, 56 River St., Bethlehem.
Tickets are $19.
For information, call 610-704-6974, or go to www.ckplayers.com.