“Molly Sweeney”

[rating=4]Are things as they appear? This is a question that has haunted mankind since , well, probably day 1! The Irish Theatre of Chicago, as its first “post-Covid” production has chosen a story that will possibly answer this question. Written by Brian Friel, a master story teller, “Molly Sweeney” tells us the story of this lass who at a very young age lost her sight and lived in a “sightless world”. She could see shadows and some light, but for the most part, not faces or colors or things. She has lived her life through sound, touch, taste and smell. But, is that enough?

When Molly’s hopeful husband and an ambitious doctor propose restoring her sight through two major operations, everyone begins to realize that things may not be exactly as they appear. The story is told in an unusual way. Directed by Siiri Scott, the three actors appear on a set (Jessie Baldinger) that is more of a series of spaces divided by stone walls and wooden fencing. Each of the actors, has their own space, where each one tells us their version of what was done. On the far left, is The Doctor , Mr. Rice ( played with great power by Robert Kauzlaric). Hearing his stories of the events allow us to see the pride that he felt in  taking Molly to a place she could only have dreamed about. In the center of the stage, Molly ( played to perfection by  Carolyn Kruse) and in the far right , for the audience, Matthew Isler as husband Frank Sweeney.

We hear about a medical miracle. We hear it from every angle of the people who are involved, and what we learn is that what one thinks should be, might not be. What we believe to be true, may not be true. I will not tell you more except to let you know that this is storytelling at its finest and even with the Irish brogues ( which were very well done) the dialogue was understandable.

The Irish Theatre of Chicago does their plays at The Chopin Theatre on Division/Milwaukee Ave./Ashland Ave., one of Chicago’s well known “six-corner” areas. This play is done in the lower level and the seating is composed of some of the comfiest chairs I have ever had the good fortune to sit in for a play that is over two hours in length ( with a 15 minute intermission). The chairs are antiques and some have armrests, others are highly padded, so you will have no problem relaxing and watching this wonderful story.

“Molly Sweeney” will continue at The Chopin “studio” Theatre located at 1543 West Division Street thru May 8th with performances as follows:

Thursdays  7 p.m.

Fridays  7 p.m.

Saturdays  7 p.m.

Sundays  4 p.m.

Tickets are $40 ( seniors and students, $5 off) and can be ordered at www.irishtheatre.org

Parking is available on the street ( watch the signage for meters and restrictions) and I am pretty sure if you check at www.chopintheatre.com you can find more info.

Covid policies are intact- vac cad and Id’s to check in and masks are worn during entire performance.

To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “Molly Sweeney”.