"Legacy of Light" runs through March 16, 2025 at Theatre in the Round Players in Minneapolis. Photo Credit: Aaron Mark Photo Film
This winter I was very excited to hear that Theatre in the Round Player's (TRP) was staging Legacy of Light by Karen Zacarías (author of The Book Club Play, Native Gardens, and Destiny of Desire). And I was even more excited because after seeing their 2024 performance of Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson, I was hoping for more historical women and STEM on their arena stage!
Check Out the 2023 Artfully Engaging Blog Post of another Karen Zacarías play:
Artist Q&A with Actor Eni Ogundipe of "The Book Club Play" at Theatre in the Round
Artist Q&A with Actor Eni Ogundipe of "The Book Club Play" at Theatre in the Round
I attended the opening night performance of Legacy of Light, directed by Kari Steinbach, and I had a great time. Theatre in the Round Players is the longest-running community theatre in the Twin Cities, located in the Seven Corners neighborhood in Minneapolis. I find the shows to be high-quality and thoughtfully produced, and this show was no different.
The story alternates between two timelines, both centering around an accomplished scientists trying to manage their dedication to their work and to their families. Or as the title of the play phrases it, their "legacies." In many ways this six-member cast performed deftly, weaving in and out of time and place, as an effective ensemble. However my favorite parts of the play revolved around the character Émilie du Châtelet, a mathematician and scientist in 18th century France, played by Rachel Postle. Other stand out performances by David Denniger as Voltaire and Emma Tonn as Millie/Pauline.
I don't want to say too much about the story as it shifts and builds in the first act and really comes together for a satisfying act two. The script brings both humor and intellectually intriguing ideas to some very relatable characters - much like The Book Club Play. Also, I appreciate this performance calling out the dire need for maternal health advancements and access to reproductive healthcare.
Overall, it was a great night at the theater. My theater partner was, "pleasantly surprised" with their first ever Theatre in the Round production. And shout out to the lighting in the show! There is some beautiful light work incorporating the scientific themes and that was a joy to watch.
I don't want to say too much about the story as it shifts and builds in the first act and really comes together for a satisfying act two. The script brings both humor and intellectually intriguing ideas to some very relatable characters - much like The Book Club Play. Also, I appreciate this performance calling out the dire need for maternal health advancements and access to reproductive healthcare.
Overall, it was a great night at the theater. My theater partner was, "pleasantly surprised" with their first ever Theatre in the Round production. And shout out to the lighting in the show! There is some beautiful light work incorporating the scientific themes and that was a joy to watch.
I recommend you add this show to your calendar. Invite a friend! Make a night (or afternoon) of your art adventure.
Local theater is so important right now. Support artists! Support community events! Your participation is needed and I truly believe that participating in live art makes you feel connected and a part of something big and important. Our stories. Our legacies?
Local theater is so important right now. Support artists! Support community events! Your participation is needed and I truly believe that participating in live art makes you feel connected and a part of something big and important. Our stories. Our legacies?
Artfully,
Photo Credit: Aaron Mark Photo Film
"['Legacy of Light'] explores weighty themes and ideas of the heart and mind--and does it with humor, intricacies, and theatricality"
~Director Kari Steinbach
Ticket Information - Legacy of Light
Legacy of Light
Written by Karen Zacarias
Dates: February 21 to March 16, 2025
Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30pm | Sundays at 2:00pm
Tickets: $20-29
Audio-Described performance: Sunday, March 16
Assisted listening and individual captioning devices are available for check-out.
Content Warning: Flashing lights. Sexual Situations and adult themes. Best for ages 14+
Written by Karen Zacarias
Dates: February 21 to March 16, 2025
Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30pm | Sundays at 2:00pm
Tickets: $20-29
Audio-Described performance: Sunday, March 16
Assisted listening and individual captioning devices are available for check-out.
Content Warning: Flashing lights. Sexual Situations and adult themes. Best for ages 14+
Theatre in the Round Players
245 Cedar Avenue
Minneapolis MN 55454
245 Cedar Avenue
Minneapolis MN 55454
Disclosure: I received complimentary press tickets to attend this show. I want to keep things transparent! If you want to become a Twin Cities Theater Blogger, reach out to the group on Facebook.
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