Mystical forces collide with societal expectations and basic human nature in Chanticleers Theatre’s production of Bell, Book & Candle.
Based on the 1950 Broadway play of the same name by John Van Druten, which was adapted into the 1958 film that inspired the television series Bewitched, director Dana Fry’s stage production proves to be just as timeless.
Set in New York City’s Greenwich Village in 1959, audiences follow the plight of Gillian Holroyd (played by Dawn Cates), a landlord who moonlights as a witch alongside her sister Nicky (Larissa Kasian) and her Aunt Queenie (Karen Barbera). Gillian’s double-life becomes even more complex as she develops romantic feelings for one of her tenants, Shepherd “Shep” Henderson (Scott Dai) as he struggles to propel his publishing career to new heights.
Learning that Shep is infatuated with the occult and seeks the attention of traveling author Sidney Redlitch (C. Conrad Cady), Gillian utilizes her magic to make Shep fall in love with her. As their new relationship begins to upend the lives of the Holroyd witches and those around them, Shep’s suspicions and Gillian’s own questions about the ethics of her witchcraft thrust the audience into a deep examination of “love under false pretenses.”
The crux of the play is undoubtedly the performances of Cates and Dai as Gillian and Shep. Dai’s usage of 1950s vernacular and mannerisms effectively emulates the acting style of James Stewart’s iconic portrayal of Shep in the 1958 film. Cates’ depiction of Gillian seamlessly juxtaposes the character’s wit and cunning nature with moments of vulnerability. Through Cates’ performance, the audience can relate many of the themes of McCarthy-era sexism and political paranoia to today’s tumultuous social landscape.
The supporting cast composed of Kasian, Barbera and Cady also add a layer of nuance and depth to the dynamic between Gillian and Shep. Kasian and Barbera’s depictions of Nicky and Aunt Queenie represent different ends of the spectrum of witchcraft as Gillian must decide if she wants to be a more subtle witch like her sister or an unapologetic sorceress like her aunt. Cady’s portrayal of Redlitch throws much-needed comedic relief into the show’s mix amid moments of growing distrust and friction between Gillian and Shep.
Credit is also due to the set design and production team at Chanticleers Theatre. Technical and scenic design director Alexandria Volk’s set expertly transports theater goers to Gillian’s Greenwich Village apartment, complete with a collection of global antiques that hints at the Holroyds’ mystical roots.
Forever tied to a story that helped usher in the romantic comedy genre, Chanticleers Theatre’s Bell, Book & Candle is a perfect show for patrons ages 13+ this upcoming Halloween season.
Chanticleers Theatre’s ‘Bell, Book & Candle’
Oct. 17 – Nov. 2
Fridays and Saturdays: 8pm
Sundays: 2pm
Chanticleers Theatre
3683 Quail Ave., Castro Valley
Tickets: $30 general, $28 senior, $12 student
