Saint Louis University Theater opens their season with Mary Zimmerman’s “The Secret in the Wings,” a modern retelling of classic fairy tales from a new, and sometimes twisted, perspective.
It is a humorous and at times menacing story that, at first glance, appears to be aimed at children, but the dark undertone of the play proves it is for all ages.
“The Secret in the Wings” begins with an innocent, imaginative little girl named Heidi (freshman Elizabeth Meinders) whose parents have left her under the watchful eye of Mr. Fitzpatrick (junior Paul Lewellyn).
Mr. Fitzpatrick has brought along his big book of fairy tales and a question for Heidi: Will you marry me?
Mr. Fitzpatrick attempts to convince Heidi to say yes to his proposal by telling her stories. As his book is opened, a whole new world unfurls before her.
The play features six fairy tales, adapted from the Brothers Grimm, whose plots twist and intertwine.
In one of the tales told, three blind queens are banished to the wilderness, where two turn to cannibalism.
In another, a princess who cannot laugh has her suitors beheaded, if they fail to amuse her.
All of the fairy tales are framed around the classic tale of “Beauty and the Beast,” the story of how a young girl’s love breaks a horrible spell put on a prince.
The fairy tales can be horrific, and show the major faults in human relationships and desires.
“Zimmerman takes something extremely simple and puts it into a whole new light to show the beauty of the stories,” Lewellyn said.
The show is an ensemble piece, as some characters play several roles, allowing for an energetic and engaging piece.
“It’s fun being able to jump from character to character,” junior cast member Joe Denk said.
Directed by Tom Martin, SLU’s production of “The Secret in the Wings” is sure to delight, amuse and possibly scar audiences.
The show will be performed on the Xavier Hall main stage on Sept. 30, Oct. 1, 7, 8, and 9.
“The Secret in the Wings” is a must see for all avid theatergoers, and an interesting play to see for those who are not.
“It is so fantastical, it’s just a whole fantasy world,” Meinders said.
