Northlight Theatre recently presented “The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk,” a play that takes the audience on a delightful journey of love and artistry. The play, written by Daniel Jamieson and featuring music by Ian Ross, is directed by Elizabeth Margolius. It follows the story of Marc Chagall, a Jewish painter born in Vitebsk, and his wife, Bella, exploring their romance and artistic endeavors. The play beautifully showcases their escape from persecution in Russia and Europe, blending dialogue, narration, song, and dance to convey their longing for the past. Themes of love, loss, and passion are depicted through various languages and dance forms, creating a captivating experience for the audience.
Jack Cahill-Lemme and Emma Rosenthal deliver captivating performances as Chagall and Bella, portraying the couple torn between their past and future with powerful emotions and physicality. The musical direction by Michael Mahler and Elisa Carlson adds depth to the show, enhancing the storytelling through music and ensemble performances. The sparse set design by Scott Penner and muted costumes by Rachel Lambert provide a backdrop that allows the performances to shine, evoking the vibrant colors of Chagall’s artwork in the minds of the audience.
In addition to the main performances, the play also features open captioned shows and audio description for accessibility. The show runs until October 6th at the Northlight Theatre, offering multiple showtimes for theater enthusiasts to enjoy this unique and moving production.
Overall, “The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk” is a must-see production that celebrates love, art, and the enduring spirit of creativity in the face of adversity. It is a touching and visually stunning portrayal of the lives of Marc Chagall and Bella, brought to life by a talented cast and creative team. This play is a testament to the power of storytelling and the universal themes of love and resilience that continue to inspire audiences around the world.