The Ladder

 The Ladder
IRT Theatre
January 31, 2026 

Photo courteys of The Ladder

Isaac Bryne’s play, The Ladder, tells the mythical tale of Theseus slaying the Minotaur.  Director Haley Rice beautifully builds the mystery and suspense in this well-crafted play.  The characters are often searching in the dark, causing the audience to lean in and listen, until the light reveals the object of their search and the desperation of the adventure.  The cast skillfully balances the heightened action with grounded emotion, engaging the audience in their individual journeys. 

When Theseus (played by James Jelkin) escapes the labyrinth after killing the Minotaur (played by Ken Orman), he has tall tales to tell.  He weaves a tale of bravery for Pirithous (played by Justin Senense), capturing his heart and loyalty.  He lures Ariadne (played by Lucy Turner) to a secluded island, only to desert her so as not to reveal how he broke his promise to her in the labyrinth.  King Ageus, Theseus’ father (played by Ken Orman), kills himself when he thinks his son is dead.  It is Persephone (played by Rebekah Rawhouser) who draws the true story out of Theseus by holding Pirithous hostage.  Even then Theseus holds back the full truth of his lustful rise to power. 

James Jelkin creates an egotistical Theseus with a blend of strength and humor.  It is the humor that makes this god-like figure a truthful and identifiable character.  Justin Senense is seductive and adversarial as Pirithous, capturing Theseus’ attention and affection.  Mr. Jelkin and Mr. Senense cleverly play at this masculine tug of war, developing a relationship based on need and convenience. 

Lucy Turner is beguiling as Ariadne.  There is a power in her self-assurance.  Theseus easily falls into her trap, only to betray her when he no longer needs her.  Ms. Turner dominates her scenes, even when she is fully defeated and confronted by Baccus (played by Justin Senense).  Mr. Senense brings an impish quality to the role of Baccus. 

Ken Orman plays a mighty King Ageus and a frightening Minotaur.  He has a majestic and commanding presence.   Rebekah Rawhouser is evil and manipulative as Medea, and fearsome and erotic as Persephone.  She is a true dynamo. 

Playwright Issac Byrne focuses on the story that each of these mythical characters holds within them.  These stories are explored as each character is introduced, giving the play a non-linear structure.  Mr. Byrne successfully delivers an ending that pulls all the loose ends together, and Ms. Rice affectively delivers it with amazing style.

The Ladder is playing at IRT Theatre (154 Christopher St., 3^rd floor) through Feb. 15. 

Domenick Danza