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Regional Reviews: Phoenix The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds Also see Gil's review of The Barricade Boys
The play centers on Beatrice, a bitter and disillusioned single mother, and her two daughters, Ruth and Tillie. Beatrice is trapped in a passive-aggressive cycle of regret and resentment, constantly lashing out at those around her while struggling to connect with and provide for her children. Ruth, the older daughter, is fragile, plagued by seizures and desperate for her mother's approval but also combative at times since she knows how to push her mother's buttons. Tillie, the youngest daughter, is introverted yet intelligent, finding quiet, introspective moments and solitude in her fascination with science. Tillie's experiment on the effects of gamma rays on marigolds becomes a powerful metaphor for the play's themes, as she seeks beauty and meaning amid the often non-stop chaos of her household. Zindel has crafted a hauntingly realistic portrayal of a dysfunctional family that unfolds in a series of tense and heart-wrenching scenes that depict the family's complex and volatile relationships. It also effectively shows how pain and trauma can be passed down through generations. The characters are flawed yet sympathetic and their struggles feel grounded in reality. While it may be difficult at times to watch due to its bleak subject matter, the way Ruth treats her children, and the intense themes of neglect, Zindel also shows how the power of dreams and the resilience of the human spirit can be quite compelling. The characters are drawn with an authenticity that makes them feel real, from Beatrice's erratic behavior and self-loathing to Ruth's desperate attempts to balance loyalty and self-preservation, and Tillie's quiet strength in the face of adversity. The play may not be as explosive as later dramatic depictions of familial discord, such as August: Osage County, as it takes a more subdued yet equally impactful approach to the subject matter and focuses on just a mother and her two daughters instead of an expansive family. However, a word of caution: unlike more traditional dramas with uplifting resolutions, Zindel's story offers no easy answers or moments of redemption, which may leave some viewers feeling drained rather than inspired. While the play is undoubtedly powerful, its unrelenting realism and emotionally raw approach might not be for everyone. The performances in Ghostlight's production are exceptional. As Beatrice, Kristin Joy Moran commands the stage with a volatile and layered portrayal, capturing the character's bitterness while revealing the deep pain beneath an abrasive exterior. Her moments of vulnerability add depth to a woman who could otherwise be purely antagonistic, making her someone you empathize with even though she is, basically, a horrible person. It's an explosive performance that you won't soon forget. As Ruth, Kate Donick brings an impressive balance of youthful energy and emotional fragility. Her portrayal of Ruth's seizures, internal battles, and struggles with her mother are heartbreaking and gripping. Anora Biggs delivers a beautifully understated performance as Tillie, embodying quiet resilience and an unwavering fascination with the natural world. Her hopeful monologues about science contrast poignantly with the turmoil of her home life, making her triumphs all the more moving. Cindy Miesse and Avery Syzmoniak round out the cast in two small supporting but important roles. Emma Denny's direction expertly navigates the play's difficult subject matter, allowing the tension to simmer without becoming overwhelming and the performances to always feel 100% authentic. Rebecca Ulbrich's realistic set design enhances the play's intimacy, making the audience feel like silent observers in the family's living room. Kaitlyn Athanasakis's thoughtful lighting choices subtly highlight the emotional shifts in each scene, ensuring that the focus remains on the powerful performances, and Madisyn Harrison's costumes are character specific. The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds is a deeply affecting and thought-provoking drama. With outstanding performances and sensitive yet powerful direction, Ghostlight Theatre's production is an excellent depiction of Zindel's masterful play and the exploration of hope and resilience in the face of hardship. The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds runs through March 30, 2025, at Ghostlight Theatre, 13541 West Camino Del Sol, Sun City West AZ. For ticket and information, please visit www.ghostlightaz.com or by call 623-777-9717 Director: Emma Denny Cast: (in order of appearance) |
