Stage Adaptation of ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ at Lifeline Theatre

When Madeleine L’Engle completed her book, A Wrinkle in Time, publishers were perplexed by its mix of science fiction and fantasy with adolescent characters and intense themes. After numerous rejections, the novel saw publication in 1962 and won the Newbery Medal. It remains in print today. James Sie’s stage adaptation, currently at Lifeline Theatre, captures the book’s whimsy and wonder despite carrying over a few weak points from the original text.

Under Heather Currie’s direction, Manali Sunkara debuts as Meg Murray, a 13-year-old struggling with school and family issues. As the daughter of two scientists, portrayed by Victoria Cruz and Brian Tochterman, Meg is too smart and impatient for dull math procedures and often defends her little brother, Charles Wallace Murray, played by Rohan Link Francisco. Meg’s world is further shaken by her father’s disappearance during a classified mission nearly a year ago. A mysterious encounter leads Meg, Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin, played by Sam Hook, on a journey through time and space to rescue her father and perhaps save Earth.

The trio is aided by three otherworldly beings, with terrestrial forms named Whatsit, portrayed by Amanda Link, Who, played by Cami Stuckert, and Which, portrayed by Jordan Gleaves. Casting two adults, Sunkara and Hook, as teenagers alongside a child actor is a slightly distracting choice. Francisco shines with his portrayal of the precocious Charles Wallace and navigates a significant character arc effectively in the second act. Sunkara sometimes struggles to capture Meg’s awkwardness but shares sincere moments with Hook as fellow outcast Calvin.

Other cast members take on multiple roles throughout the play. Link transitions from an endearing Whatsit to a menacing character on Camazotz. Cruz offers contrasting portrayals of motherhood, balancing warmth and strength with fear under authoritarian rule. Cruz’s brief role as the Happy Medium, named for her positivity and foresight, is endearing.

The production team crafts an enchanting setting for the children’s adventure. Reflecting Ellen Raskin’s original cover art, designer Lindsay Mummert uses circles extensively on the set. This motif continues in props by Sam Lancaster through key use of orbs. Joe Griffin’s sound design, Sarah Riffle’s lighting, and Jazmin Aurora Medina’s costumes help build an ethereal and quirky atmosphere.

After experiencing the book for the first time personally, observing its translation to the stage on Camazotz piqued my interest. The Orwellian and Cold War influences on this planet, where conformity is enforced through surveillance, are evident. Currie’s team uses puppets by Saskia Bakker and rhythmic dialogue to illustrate the citizens’ mechanical existence, though one of the book’s chilling images becomes an abstract rendition in the performance.

Sie’s adaptation aligns closely with the book, maintaining both strengths and weaknesses. The second act starts intriguingly but drags until reaching a quick, somewhat simplistic resolution. Both novel and play suggest that “love conquers all,” a clichéd conclusion to a battle of good and evil. Nevertheless, A Wrinkle in Time offers audiences timeless truths, embracing fear but encouraging action, and underscores that perceived flaws may be key strengths.

At its heart, the story celebrates family, friendship, and self-acceptance, exploring darker themes with courage and curiosity.

Emily McClanathan is a 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