Stage Adaptation of ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ Captures the Essence of a Classic Tale

When Madeleine L’Engle completed her novel “A Wrinkle in Time,” publishers were initially puzzled by its unique mix of science fiction and fantasy with adolescent protagonists facing serious themes. Despite numerous rejections, the book was published in 1962 and went on to win the prestigious Newbery Medal, remaining in print since. James Sie’s adaptation for the stage, now at Lifeline Theatre, retains the charm and curiosity of the novel, though some weaker aspects persist in the production.

Under the direction of Heather Currie, Manali Sunkara debuts at Lifeline Theatre as Meg Murray, a 13-year-old grappling with challenges both at school and at home. Her parents, portrayed by Victoria Cruz and Brian Tochterman, are scientists. Meg struggles with maintaining the patience required in her math classes and often defends her brother, Charles Wallace Murray, played by Rohan Link Francisco. Her father’s mysterious disappearance while on a government mission adds to her turmoil.

One stormy night, Meg, Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin (portrayed by Sam Hook) embark on a journey across dimensions to rescue her father and possibly save Earth. Guided by celestial beings in earthly guises, Whatsit (Amanda Link), Who (Cami Stuckert), and Which (Jordan Gleaves), they explore time and space. The casting choice, featuring adult actors in the roles of teenagers alongside a child actor, creates a noticeable mismatch. Francisco captivates with his portrayal of Charles Wallace, showing versatility as his character faces challenges in the second act. Sunkara occasionally has difficulty capturing Meg’s youthful awkwardness authentically, yet her interactions with Hook’s Calvin are endearing.

The play’s other actors step into multiple roles, with Amanda Link transforming from a whimsical Whatsit to a threatening presence on the world of Camazotz. Cruz offers nuanced performances, contrasting Meg’s nurturing mother with a Camazotzian woman living under an oppressive regime. Her short stint as the Happy Medium, a pun on optimism and foresight, is warmly received.

The production team crafts a magical setting for the children’s adventure. Lindsay Mummert’s set design echoes Ellen Raskin’s original cover illustration, incorporating circular motifs throughout. Props designer Sam Lancaster supports this theme with orbs at key moments. Joe Griffin’s sound design and Sarah Riffle’s lighting enhance the ethereal mood, while Jazmin Aurora Medina’s costumes capture the oddities and threats of the creatures they meet.

Following a recent introduction to the book, I looked forward to seeing Lifeline’s adaptation of Camazotz. Comparing it to Orwellian ideals and Cold War undertones, the stagecraft uses puppets by Saskia Bakker and repetitive dialogue to depict the citizens’ mechanized existence. This analog method is effective, though aspects of the book’s haunting imagery are abstracted.

Sie’s script stays faithful to the novel, for both its strengths and flaws. The second act begins with promise but slows before resolving quickly. Both in the book and on stage, the message that “love conquers all” can feel quite simplistic given the high stakes involved. Nonetheless, the tale provides ageless lessons: fear may arise against evil, but it is essential to act. Quirks seen as faults can become strengths in the struggle.

In essence, “A Wrinkle in Time” is about family, friendship, and self-discovery, welcoming darkness and eccentricity along the way.

Emily McClanathan, Freelance Critic

Review: “A Wrinkle in Time” (3 stars)
When: Through Oct. 18
Where: Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.
Running time: 2 hours
Tickets: $47 at lifelinetheatre.com or 773-761-4477