RECOMMENDED
Sentinels, a contemporary feminist fable that might have happened or might still be happening is making its world premiere at Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre.
In order to advance positive social change, a group of super smart mid-century co-eds poised to enter positions of power vow to use their influence to see to it that more women have a seat at the table where big decisions are being made.
Inspired by Yale’s famed Skull & Bones, five female students at Joan of Arc University in Milwaukee contrive to establish an elite society to advance women into places of decision-making authority and leadership.
Faced with the condemnation of their secret meeting place on campus the current group of Sentinels must confront the possibility of disbanding. The location, festooned with intellectual graffiti and brimming with a hodgepodge of a half-century of historic memorabilia, seems essential to their existence.
The discovery of a cache of old meeting minutes helps the women realize the depth of accomplishments their predecessors achieved.
Told through a series of vignettes highlighting various advances in social equality over the past fifty years, this clever production has a cautionary comic-book like quality that is simplistic but ultimately inspiring.
Directed by Christopher Pazdernik, each of the five actors (Arwen-Vira Marsh, Dani Pike, Joryhebel Ginorio, Sophia G. Dennis, Maliha Sayed) play multiple roles, with Anne Sheridan Smith as President Sureham.
Written by Writers Theatre co-founder Marilyn Campbell-Lowe, the production features a finale musical number best described as an anthem. Music is by Kim D. Sherman with lyrics by Sherman and Campbell-Lowe.
This can be a good capsule lesson in current events or history especially for teens and those interested in feminist topics and/or societal change. But be advised that its discussions of sexual activity and termination of pregnancy may not be suitable for all audiences.
Details: Sentinels is at Theo Ubique Cabaret Theater, 721 Howard St., Evanston, through August 10, 2025. Runtime is 75 minutes with no intermission. For information call 773-939-4101 or visit theo-u.com.
Reno Lovison
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