Where do you turn when you’re unsure of something? Do you ask a parent or mentor? Your partner or a close friend? Or do you, like many, turn to religion for answers? What happens when the most pious among us are also unsure? John Patrick Shanley’s Doubt: A Parable rings just as true today as the time period in which it’s set. This riveting drama is now on stage in an impressive new production by Wren Theatre, directed by Tatum Lee. Compelling performances and a story that’ll leave you questioning everything you’ve seen make Doubt: A Parable an unforgettable night at the theatre.

Sister James is a relatively new teacher at St. Nicholas Church School, as is their Priest: Father Flynn. Charismatic and a great speaker, Father Flynn has certainly gained some attention within his parish. Sister James is teaching the grade eight class which also happens to have the only black student, Donald Muller, in the whole school. Sister Aloysius, the school’s principal, is concerned for the young man’s well-being, and not just what bullying he might be enduring from the other boys in his class. When Sister James begins to notice Donald getting some special attention from Father Flynn, it sets Sister Aloysius on the war path to uncover just what might be happening behind the closed doors of the rectory.

In our society of cancel culture, stories like Doubt seem to be happening all too frequently: someone can get totally ostracized from mainstream culture for a singular comment or a seemingly off-putting opinion, yet those with plenty of evidence against them can remain popular figures, heck they can even be the chosen leader of a country. Yet what Doubt shows us is that not everything is as it seems, and how easy it is to see evidence where you want to see it. We desperately want Sister Aloysius’ passionate crusade to be worthwhile; if Father Flynn is doing what she thinks he’s doing, then he deserves every bit of her wrath. Yet in that final scene of the show, everything gets thrown into question, and while Sister Aloysius’ methodology seems underhanded, doesn’t it work? Is retreat a sign of guilt? But when we have evidence, when we know with abject certainty of someone’s guilt, should we not be going after them with the same zeal as Sister Aloysius? Or, like Sister James do we let the charm create doubt?

The Annex Theatre has been transformed by Tatum Lee’s set design; with all of the locations represented in the Annex’s intimate space, this is certainly an impressive world for these characters to inhabit. Everything from the stained glass windows, to the lockers to represent the gym class, to Sister Aloysius’ office, fits the period and the necessities of the play perfectly. Likewise, their costumes speak to their positions within the church, and truly only Mrs. Muller’s beautiful frock and coat give an indication of the mid-60’s, yet it’s spot on.

However, what makes Doubt: A Parable the captivating phenomenon that it is, comes from the performances. Bonnie Anderson’s Sister Aloysius is a tour de force; she is passionate yet cold, ardent and firm. Anderson brings a fire that’s essential for Sister Aloysius and performs the role beautifully. Lizzie Moffatt brings a soft earnestness to Sister James which I cannot help but empathize with. She fully goes on the emotional rollercoaster of this play with her character and is always a joy to watch. Robert Notman’s Father Flynn is exactly what the role needs: a man who is just charismatic enough to be able to convince Sister James (and maybe the audience) of his views, while also having that edge of the kind of man who can get away with such things. His stage presence is undeniable, and he plays so well with Anderson and Moffatt. Rounding out the cast is Jessica Myrie as Mrs. Muller. Myrie only has one scene, yet she makes the most of it with her spirited performance. At times looking terrified of the cold Sister Aloysius, at others tired through to her soul, Myrie breathes life into Mrs. Muller. Wren Theatre has certainly cultivated an impressive roster of performers, and with each new production they outdo themselves.

So, who do you believe? Do you believe Father Flynn or Sister Aloysius? What signifies guilt to you? Doubt: A Parable will have you discussing this, and so much more, on your way home from the theatre. Truly a parable for modern times, with each viewing I feel like I become more aware of what makes this play such a cultural touchstone.

Doubt: A Parable runs at the Annex Theatre until October 25. For more information and tickets, visit: https://www.wrentheatre.com/doubt-a-parable

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Cover Photo: Robert Notman and Bonnie Anderson. Photo by Valentina Caballero.

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