The Mysteries of Irma Vep is a classic gothic tale filled with ghosts, vampires, werewolves, and suspicious family members. The show centers around Lord Edgar Hillcrest and his new wife, Lady Enid Hillcrest, who has arrived at the estate and struggles to fit in. The ominous presence of Edgar’s late wife Irma Vep hovers over them, in more ways than one. Late night shenanigans lead to the exposure of supernatural elements, and lead both characters on a journey to discover who, what, when, and how.
Irma Vep is a two-person play by Charles Ludlam that features the actors changing roles between scenes, done here flawlessly without interrupting the action. This is a great feat for director Mike Reynolds and stage director Cynthia Wilson, with help from the talented dressers backstage: Emily Feil, Lindsay Hans, Teresa Morley, and Dan Morley. The cast of characters are played by Dana Lewenthal and Alicia von Kugelgen, who both do a great job shifting into each role. Their physicalities are clearly distinguishable between the various characters so that there’s no confusion. They’re aided by great props and costumes from Lisa Danz and Jane Corich that bring to life this Wuthering Heights inspired tale.
Gothic inspired television shows, such as Teen Wolf, Supernatural, Pretty Little Liars, and Riverdale are at peak popularity right now. Like the “Penny Dreadfuls” of their time, they provide entertainment for young audiences and capture their imaginations. Heightened dialogue and actions raise the stakes and keep audiences tuned in to find out what ridiculous scenario will unfold next.
Among the silly is also tragedy — a fair balance. The uncertainties of life loom close, and interpersonal relationships take center stage, but, much like life, small interactions turn to deep connections that drive the meaningful aspects of the plot forward. A magnificent job has been done meshing the scenes together so that the character and costume changes don’t break the flow of action. This play closes out the season for the Role Player Ensemble, and we await what they come up with next.
The Mysteries of Irma Vep: A Penny Dreadful is playing at the Village Theatre now through April 28. For more information about the Role Players Ensemble, and to purchase tickets, visit www.roleplayersensemble.com.
Tickets also may be purchased at www.villagetheatreshows.com or call 925-314-3400. Box Office available starting one hour before each performance at the Village Theatre & Gallery, 233 Front Street, Danville, CA 94526.
