**** Those of you familiar with Theater Wit are aware that the three stages are very different and the productions in those “black boxes” are always unique. Last night, when I entered Theater Three, there were some people already seated, but still. The seating was sort of “in the round”, but in fact, would be called, “in-the- rectangle” Kevin Hagan’s set is simple and works with the way that he has directed this slick production. The four people seated are in fact the actors who tell this story about love, identity, hope, and desires.

There is a fifth cast member played by Kristin Collins, Martha, who  is bedridden and being helped by Hannah.. Hannah ( beautifully played by Annie Hogan) is wed to Samuel ( a brilliant portrayal by Todd Wojcik) who is what one might call a “player”, often  seeking other women for his pleasure. Understand that this story takes place in the 1850’s, and yet, the same situations take place in today’s world- desire over love, doing whatever is needed for business sakes, and  choosing option over right and wrong.

When two visitors, Alfred Darby ( deftly handled by John LaFlamboy), an American philanthropist , and Sarah, an African-American ( a powerful performance by Ashayla Calvin). They  truly help tell the powerful story that unfolds in this 2 hour and thirty minute performance ( one intermission). Each of the characters has their “story” and somehow they connect allowing us to witness how people see their lives and learn from their experiences.

The story unfolds slow and easy with the performers sitting with us for the scenes they are not in, and this is not an easy task, I am sure. Rachel Lambert’s costumes are terrific and the lighting ( Ellie Fey) and sound (Petter Wahlback) help the story. When in their seats, often, the voices did not carry to the far end of the venue, so they might consider doing small microphones as they would not want audience members to miss any of the dialogue.

Hats off to Randy Rozler for their props and Charlotte Markle ( dialect coach) who truly had the Tewkley’s sound as if they were in Ireland ( born and bred). The intimacy & fighting “choreography” was handled by David Blixt. While I know they prefer “designer” or “director”, I truly feel that this is more “choreography”. During last night’s performance, during one of the strong scenes where it was storming, we also had the experience of having water drip down on our seats. All’s well, and it was the one and only empty seat that got wet. Sure made that scene feel very real. Elizabeth Kuti’s play is very strong and The Artistic Home Company makes it one to see.

” The Sugar Wife” will continue Thru – May 3rd with performances as follows: