Arthur: The Hunt Captivating and Compelling

Arthur: The Hunt continues  Friday, September 13th, Saturday, September 14th and closing night, Sunday, September 15th. All performances will be at the Grange, beginning at 7:30 pm

a review by Lin McNulty

Creighten Hofeditz (Arthur) and Cara Russell (Morgan) “getting acquainted.” Photo: Chris Thomerson

Writing with my fingers on keyboard means you don’t see tear-stained ink as I write this. I was deeply moved and brought to tears by the opening night performance of Arthur: The Hunt. I would have thought that after all the reviews I have written, I would be immune.

The Arthurian legend is timelessly compelling and Seattle Playwright Jeff Berryman has chosen to go deep into the human truths of the myth and reveal a most beautiful love story set amidst war, upheaval, and trauma.

The story, part two of a seven-part series, is immediately compelling, even before the first line is spoken. Although Arthur: The Hunt is only one part of a series, it certainly holds its own as a stand-alone presentation.

Cara Russell as Morgan exquisitely explores the full-range of her emotions, wrapping the audience lovingly in her arms throughout her performance.

Tom Fiscus is Merlin (Emrys), whose burden of truth which he bears on his shoulders is evident throughout. Freddy Hinkle as Cadwallan fully maintains a mighty and sinister intensity.

Kate Hansen as Gwen, the warrior queen. Photo: Chris Thomerson

Bruce Hunter Bosley as Uriens, a brand new king after the death of his father, obviously carries a passion for Gwen. Creighten Hofeditz is Bledri (Arthur) and establishes himself as a realistic love interest for Morgan, as well as a soldier of pure heart.

Zach Schwartz is a delightful comedic relief in an otherwise overwhelming depressive situation. Kate Hansen, long involved behind the scenes at Actors Theater, shines brilliantly in her stage debut as Gwen, the warrior queen.

Scene changes were seemingly seamless and thankfully timed and necessary to allow the audience a brief opportunity to catch their collective breath.

It is difficult for actors to carry off unfamiliar accents. The entire cast pulled it off amazingly without it sounding phony or overdone, for which they deserve extra kudos.

Costuming by Kathy Walsh was exquisitely appropriate, and the sparse scenery realistically portrayed time and place.

Freddy Hinkle as the sinister Cadwallan. Photo: Chris Thomerson

Martin Lund and Paris Wilson pulled together a soundtrack that beautifully portrays the emotional impact of the play.

Arthur: The Hunt continues   Friday, September 13, Saturday, September 14 and closing night, Sunday, September 15. All performances will be at the Grange, beginning at 7:30 pm.

This play is suitable for all but the youngest children. Tickets are $10 and are available at Darvills Bookstore, on-line at www.orcasactors.com and at the door.

For additional information contact the Director, Doug Bechtel at 317-5601.