A Review by Krista Knudtsen
Milligan College’s most recent drama was a novelty for the theater, set apart by its unique origin and style. The Quickening is Milligan’s first original production, written by Debbie Harbin, administrative assistant for academic affairs.
As the previous plays this year have shown, many of Milligan’s major theater productions played up the entertaining capabilities of the stage. Alice in Wonderland and The Secret Garden lent themselves to the entertaining “visual show” part of theater as children’s plays.
By contrast, The Quickening offered a more modern theatrical discussion of issues. Harbin considered hers a thinking sort of play. It was “not for convincing, but for exploration,” she said.
The story revolved around Hannah, a young woman who grew up under a driven mother and inherited her passion for activism. Hannah strongly believes that women should abstain from having children to allow for more space, resources and opportunities for the future generations. Hannah’s politics are challenged when Lillian, a healer to barren women, steps into her life. Soon after, Hannah discovers she is pregnant and is forced to reconsider her beliefs.
“It challenged you to closely consider some commonly accepted social ideologies,” said Meghan Wymer, a sophomore humanities major.
“I think The Quickening was a fantastic opportunity for the Milligan community to experience a different kind of play than what has been the standard lately,” said Emma Rees, a senior fine arts major. “And it utilized the different talents within the community, through both the actors and playwrights.”
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