Well

By Lisa Kron

Directed by Rachel Bledsoe

Lisa Kron knows her mission: use the stage to solve the puzzle of her mother. Ann Kron -- once a dynamic neighborhood civil rights activist -- has struggled with a lifelong "mystery illness" that sapped all her energy. Lisa has hired four multiracial actors to explore her mother's story, and has also transported her mother onto the stage to serve as an example of chronic illness. But a comedic revolt breaks out. The actors criticize the script, Lisa's memories conflict with her flashbacks, her mother interrupts with her own opinions, and Lisa finds herself in danger of losing control. This lively play is loaded with theater tricks that result in some surprising and moving truths about the real meaning of wellness.

Starring Marcy Weiland and Jan Levine Thal, with Sue Carnell, Kay Dixon, James Macon Grant, Casey Grimm, and Corianne Wilson

Produced by Mercury Players Theater at Mercury Players MercLab Theatre, 930 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Madison, WI 53704

Performances: May 15 - June 6, 2009

Performance Times: Fridays and Saturdays, 8 pm Sunday 5/24 and Sunday 5/31, 2 pm

Ticket Prices: $15; $10 students/seniors

Call 608-661-9696 for reservations or more information.