The Jester’s Wife

 The Jester’s Wife
Knowledge Workings Theater LLC
36^th Street Theatre
September 30, 2023 

Photo courtesy of Knowledge Workings Theater LLC

Knowledge Workings Theater LLC’s production of The Jester’s Wife is a “Dark Ages comedy” about survival, mythmaking, and a quest for truthful storytelling.  Written and directed by T.J. Elliott, this tale is authentic in style and antiquity.  It tells of St. Dymphna, a medieval Irish martyr “who is recognized as patron saint of the mentally ill and victim of incest.”  Although not the ideal topic for a comedy, Mr. Elliott creates light-hearted characters, rhythmic and funny dialogue, and perilous situations that bring humor to an otherwise dark topic and time period.

When the King of Ireland beheads his virgin daughter, Dymphna, the Jester (played by Steve Weatherbee) and his Wife (played by Emma Taylor Miller) flee for their lives.  They take refuge in a cave, and realize the need to tell the story of what happened to Dymphna in order to keep themselves from harm.  A deranged Stranger (played by Xander Jackson) enters the cave.  The Jester’s Wife mixes a potion to help him regain his senses.  The next morning the Stranger’s spell has passed, but he does not remember who he is.  He agrees to help the Jester and his Wife tell the story of Dymphna as a play to gain support from the populace.  As the Jester tells of how he disguised Dymphna to help her escape her fate, the Jester’s Wife argues that is more important to tell the truth of Dymphna’s struggle and sacrifice.  As they wrestle to find the best way to successfully tell the tale, the Stranger regains his memory. 

Steve Weatherbee & Emma Taylor Miller
Photo courtesy of Knowledge Workings Theater LLC

Steve Weatherbee and Emma Taylor Miller are an excellent pair as the Jester and his Wife.  Mr.
Weatherbee is limber and funny, telling riddles and creating limericks when the moment becomes grave.  Ms. Miller’s portrayal of the Jester’s Wife is the perfect foil to this jocular perspective.  She is serious about their situation and pushes the Jester to keep the telling of Dymphna’s cruel and brutal demise factual.  It is this juxtaposition of character that keeps the story engaging.

Steve Weatherbee & Xander Jackson
Photo courtesy of Knowledge Workings Theater LLC

Xander Jackson opens the show with a comical prologue.  He later peaks the audience’s interest when he enters the cave as the Stranger.  His comic timing further accelerates the action as his character gradually regains his memory.  The interplay of the three characters builds as they each work to achieve their individual objective in telling of the story of Dymphna.

Gloria Novi’s set creates an intriguing environment.  Her geometric design is visually stimulating, and creates levels and playing areas for the actors to explore.  The costumes by Elena Vannoni are colorful and imaginative, while holding true to the period. 

The Jester’s Wife is playing at 36^th Street Theatre (312 W. 36 St., NYC 10018) through October 8.

Domenick Danza