Hot off her Know Theatre of Cincinnati Main Stage debut last month, Director Caitlin McWethy leads the way for the World Premiere of The Ravenside Occurrence by local artist Derek J. Snow. In a palpably eerie setting, we are introduced to a group of four women escaping an asylum where they have been imprisoned due to late 19th century biases. It isn’t a simple ghost story; it is a profound exploration of how misogyny, racism, and fear of things we do not understand can haunt the living.
The Production Team
If you do not already know, Ms. McWethy is a keen and skilled director. She makes excellent use of the Main Stage playing space, including in ways previously unseen. While the set is expansive and grand, each moment remains intimate and sacred. Scenic Design by Gabby Trice complements the vision flawlessly. This set is a character all on its own. Furniture pieces are appropriately worn (but beautiful); cobwebs are meticulously and functionally placed. Serving as further complement to the set and direction is Lighting Design by Charlie Raschke. The juxtaposition of darkness and brightness is key to this story and he does not miss a beat.
Special notice to Composer Jimmie A. Parker Sr. whose haunting score is the thing of dreams (or nightmares). Shoutout to musicians ConcertNova for an adept execution of Parker’s opus. In addition, Choreographer Camille Jones brings such pride and uninhibited joy to the stage. Finally, the spectral influence would be incomplete without Properties Designer Rebecca Armstrong, Sound/Video Designer Doug Borntrager, and Technical Director Drew Homan. Bravx to all!
The Performing Artists
This is a true ensemble composition with actors who understand what it means to work together. Meredith Frankie Crutcher tackles the role of Emma, the one most familiar with the abandoned inn to which the group escapes. Ms. Crutcher keeps her story-telling full of movement, both vocally and physically, and it works like a charm. Tierra London Rush is exceptional in the role of Bethany, the sensitive soul who possesses a quiet strength. Ms. Rush’s transparent and graceful portrayal allows the audience to easily trust Bethany as much as the rest of the women do.
Abi Esmena plays Nora, a spitfire who we all need in our corner (because I do not believe we’d last if she were in the opposite one). Ms. Esmena gives Nora a lovely depth by including subtle reactions in her mostly loud persona; her instincts as a performer are top notch. In the role of Hazel, Jordan Trovillion shines as the endearingly cunning member of the quad. Not only is Ms. Trovillion’s Irish dialect one of the best to have graced the stage, her expressive manner and lack of inhibition as a performer serve the lovable pilferer well.
The Sweet and Lowdown
There are things I can not mention in order to avoid spoilers, but rest assured, there is even more to this story than this review shares. While the description of the show prepares you for spookiness and unifying against prejudice, this is only a small piece of the puzzle. The stories of the Bedlam refugees lead to other people’s stories and this is where we really get to delve into important matters. One of the great lessons is not everything is as it seems. The way this show is written and how it unfolds mirror this sentiment exactly. Especially poignant today (and everyday), we need to be open to enlightenment, edification, and empathy. Keeping both an open mind and open heart is a wonderful place to begin.
Ticket to Ravenside Occurrence
The Ravenside Occurrence at Know Theatre of Cincinnati runs now through April 18th. For more information about the production and to purchase tickets, please visit here.
