Review: Nancy Palk Shines in THE TESTAMENT OF MARY

The Bible features parables, stories and encounters of the life and trials of Jesus and his disciples; but a figure who is so prominent in that story - his mother, Mary, only speaks four times. Her role as a matriarch is often silent, and the Aaron Willis-directed THE TESTAMENT OF MARY, now playing at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts, explores what Mary would say if she could have said more. The play, by Colm Toibin (based on his 2012 novella of the same name) looks at the life and death of Jesus from the perspective of Mary - through the eyes of a traumatized and grieving woman and mother. The 70-minute solo performance is a star-vehicle for Nancy Palk who embraces this challenging, trying and controversial role.

THE TESTAMENT OF MARY, both the book and play, has been heavily criticized from its inception because of its so-called blasphemous take and mockery on religion. The Broadway production closed after just two weeks of performances but still spawned three Tony Award nominations. Though Toibin's work, while off-book, doesn't directly tear down the Bible, but rather reaches deeper into the feelings and grief of a woman whose story has never been heard. Toibin, the mind behind the story of 2015 Oscar nominated film, Brooklyn, is known for his strong and emotional portrayals of women, often inspired by his Irish heritage.

The moving production stems from her accounts by four evangelists who badger her while they attempt to write their official versions of Jesus' life. Suspicious of their motives, she speaks from her heart and says, "the truth should be spoken at least once in the world." It's an interesting spark, and the resulting narrative is deep as the audience unboxes and unravels Mary at a very different emotional level. Throughout the Bible, Mary is seen as kind and patient, but Toibin's work depicts her as frustrated, angry and scared.

There is truly no one better to bring this controversial depiction of this character to life than Soulpepper founding member Nancy Palk. The synergy between her fragility and strength characterizes Mary in both the expected and unexpected. Her haunting portrayal, stamina and deeply emotional take is so encompassing and rhythmic, it's impossible to look away.

Part of that reason is because of the immaculate lighting design by Lorenzo Savoini. The stage was illuminated with a large array of lights from all directions, surrounding Palk in shadows. This created and eerie tone and added depth to the smaller Michael Young Theatre. The lighting and tone would also change with each nuance in the story, shifting emotion from scene to scene, following Nancy as she moved across the bare stage, simply dressed with wooden chairs and tables. The set was also anchored by a beautiful wood and slate backdrop, taking a more modern approach to Biblical design - and story.

Now playing at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts until June 18. For tickets and more information, visit soulpepper.ca.

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