Abigail/1702

Abigail/1702

By Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa
Directed by Blake Robison
Originally produced at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Cincinnati, OH.
January 19, 2013 through February 17, 2013


About the Premiere Production

What really happened to The Crucible’s Abigail Williams after she stole through Salem’s forest one dark night in search of a new life and new beginning? In this exciting world premiere, 10 years have passed since the infamous witch trials, but Abigail still struggles to atone for her sins, the ones history remembers — and darker ones that live in her heart. As she cares for a young sailor on the brink of death, a mysterious stranger from Abigail’s past catches up with her, sending her on one final, suspense-filled quest for redemption. (Photo: Stephanie Fieger in Abigail/1702. Photo by Sandy Underwood.)


Artistic Statement

Blake Robison, Artistic Director
Abigail/1702 is a striking, historical fantasia that springs from the simple question: what happened to Abigail Williams? Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa is well known for his highly imaginative work. This play draws on all facets of his artistry – his attraction to complex characters, his gift for contemporary dialogue, his highly visual style and his love of a good ghost story. Roberto’s play fuses iconic characters with a modern sensibility. It squeezes Miller-sized passions through the filter of modern vernacular dialogue to create a world all its own. It is a wholly original play that bridges the gap between classical and contemporary by catching up with Miller’s character ten years down the line. She feels familiar yet strangely new. It is 1702, yet the action jumps off the page with freshness and immediacy. It’s like viewing a picture through the refracted light of a prism, or seeing the negative of a newly restored photograph.



Grant Statement

Blake Robison, Artistic Director
The extra week of rehearsal provided by the Edgerton Foundation fostered collaboration between the cast and creative team. It was a gift to have everyone together – sharing ideas and making valuable adjustments, knowing that we had the time to explore. Too often, there is a rush to lock in your choices. We didn't have to do that right away, and the play benefited enormously.



Director: Blake Robison

Set Design: Wilson Chin

Lighting Design: Matthew Richards

Sound Design: Matthew M. Nielson

Costume Design: Marion Williams

Cast: Ross Bickell, Nicholas Carriere, Stephanie Fieger, Deanne Lorette, Ethan Verderber

Additional Funders: Abigail/1702 is sponsored by Tony Alper. Additional support is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. The playwright sponsor is Atkins & Pearce Inc. The artist sponsor is Gallagher SKS.


News

Abigail/1702 (Review): Spectral sequel premieres at Cincinnati Playhouse

CityBeat.com

January 26, 2013

 

High-Wire Act: Creator of 'Abigail/1702' grew up dreaming of being a playwright

CityBeat.com

January 15, 2013

 

Abigail/1702, Exploring Aftermath of The Crucible, Will Play Cincinnati

Playbill.com

January 8, 2013