“Villette”

The novel is one that many are unaware of, almost an undiscovered gem and is filled with romance and intrigue.. This is a play that one might expect at Northlight in Skokie, but what director Tracy Walsh has done with this script is masterful.

This is the story of Lucy Snowe ( the adorable Mi Kang) and her life as first a nanny, then a teacher and later a person of high standards who is loved. Her journey to another land, with no knowledge of the language and no “connections” shows her courage and her ability to overcome all of what life puts before her. Including what appears to be a ghost (of a nun). 

On her voyage she meets Ginerva ( Mo Shipley), a young lady who has “connections” and will find her mate as she is well educated and has been prepared for the better life”. The contrast in personalities is stunning and well played by these two ladies. Lucy is employed as a Nanny for Madame Beck ( deftly handled by Helen Joo Lee), who has three children. At the start of the play, All but Ginerva and Lucy speak French, but at one point, they announce to us that it will speed things up to use English from now on. This brought a titter to the audience.

This is a story not only about courage and Lucy’s determination to succeed, but about love as There are several men in the story and both are important roles. John Bretton also known as Dr. John ( Ronald Roman-Melendez) is sort of a cousin to Lucy as his mother, Mrs. Bretton ( Renee Lockett) is Lucy’s great aunt. He is loved by Ginerva, but has feelings for Lucy.

Ginerva has her heart set on marrying the other man, Paul Emmanuel ( played to perfection by Debo Balogun) who has just inherited land that will bring him riches.

So one can see the romantic side of the story and the love triangles that are formed. Watching the story progress and Lucy become the women of the story shows that everyone has the opportunity to rise above their station and enjoy the fruits of their labor.

Yu Shibagaki’s set is very simple. There are screens that unveil different sections of the stage keeping our focus where director Walsh wants us to gaze. Mara Blumenfeld’s costumes are wonderful and the sound ( Deon Custard and Brandon Reed) and lighting (John Culbert) are, as always, perfect.

If you are into Bronte’s works, you will love this adaptation. If you are a Hallmark TV watcher, this will appeal to you as well. It is a delightful two hours of theater and shows the versatility of Lookingglass Theatre Company.