Spotlights give way to shadowy figures as a bird statue takes center stage in “A Map of Virtue,” Doane Theatre’s final performance this season. Director Blake Tobey aimed to explore the impact of theatre on mental health through this unsettling production. Primarily, he wished to create an intense and thrilling show without sacrificing the mental or physical health of the actors.
This show addressed chilling stories and dark themes, showcasing powerful performances from both experienced actors and newcomers to the theatre. After the story concluded, the cast and crew often held dance parties following rehearsals to unwind and distance themselves from the heavy material.
The wooden and platformed stage welcomed the audience, accompanied by the sound of birds before the play began. The story unfolds in a disconnected and disconcerting manner, following Sarah and Mark as they encounter each other at various points in their lives. The narrative quickly becomes more troubling, culminating in a harrowing multi-day kidnapping.
Performances by senior Alexis McDaniel-Gates and junior Matthieu Helaine were outstanding, along with the rest of the cast and crew. Hannah Schmitz and freshman Ash Abercrombie delivered chilling portrayals of evil with unwavering intensity.
In summary, the show delves into themes of trauma, coping and suffering. An air of discomfort permeated the audience as the story progressed, offering no reprieve and instead compelling the audience to confront the characters’ struggles.
Explorations of trauma seem to be an overarching theme from this theatre season. “A Map of Virtue” caps an excellent season from Doane Theatre, which also featured “She Kills Monsters,” “Between the Lines,” and “Town Hall.”
Tobey explained that his choice for this play stemmed from his love of horror and gothic tales. “That’s why we have approached this show with a heavy focus on how trauma, shame, and survival all shape the ways we navigate the world,” Tobey wrote in his director’s notes.
After the performance, Darcy Dawson, director of counseling services, and junior, CAPE peer educator Ella Zubieni, joined the cast and crew on stage to discuss the themes. “It is a weird show. I’ve seen it probably 67 times now, and I still wonder what is happening,” remarked Tobey, encouraging the audience to form their interpretations. The cast shared their interpretations and how these influenced their performances.
The dedication and depth of exploration demonstrated in this production were evident in its execution. The play was a fitting send-off for this season of Doane Theatre and the talented seniors who will leave the stage in good hands for next year’s performances.
