Carlee WrightWhat would you do if you discovered a naked photo of you was being shared on the Internet?
The Verona Studio continues its 2021 virtual season April 2-4 and 9-11 with Annie Fox’s Woman Caught Unaware, about “a university professor (who) is caught in a storm when an image of her in a changing room is shared online.”
Delving into the world of body shaming, aging and the representation of women as the sole actor of this monologue is Robynn Hayek. A familiar face on the Salem stage, you may remember her from other Verona shows, such as ‘Night Mother; Love, Loss & What I Wore; and True West, or from her Pentacle Theatre performances, which have included (but are definitely not limited to) Steel Magnolias; All My Sons; and Sordid Lives.
Drawn to the play for its subject matter, Robynn recognizes the relatability of the topic.
“It’s so relevant to now and being an older woman, as the script says, having been overweight all my life knowing what that feels like being judged, how you are looked at differently. It really resonated with me,” said Robyn.
Director Patricia Wylie said the show is “absolutely perfect for Robyn. The subject matter is tough, but she is brave enough. Robyn, when she takes on a role — wow. This one she gets. I am just delighted to have the chance to work with her.”
Preparing a play during the time of Covid comes with certain limitations and barriers. Adding to that challenge has also been an 8-hour time difference and rehearsing over Zoom as Patricia is and has been quarantining in Scotland for the past year. “Having to direct over Zoom has been interesting,” she said.
Fortunately, Patricia and Robynn’s past experience working together has helped them build comradery and understanding that’s allowed their collaboration to flourish.
“We do it just like you do if you are in the theater,” said Robyn. “You run it. You have notes. You do it again. You make adjustments. But I do miss having someone there for lines.”
“…I think it will make us stronger in performance,” said Patricia. “This is such a challenge for any actor. If we can generalize this experience to the stage, I think that can really help with an actor’s timing. It improves your directing skills that’s for sure.”
Difficulties of distances aside, there is another layer of creativity at work when it comes to the development of a virtual play — translating the play to film, keeping the experience of the stage although sharing on the screen.
Overall, Patricia and Robynn agree that this play has been a wonderful opportunity as it has both challenged and strengthened their creativity.
“It is an honor and privilege to work with Patricia,” Robynn said. “She is an extraordinary director.”
Additionally, Patricia and Robynn are passionate about their involvement with The Verona Studio, as it provides a venue for the arts, expression and connection.
“I think Verona should be very proud that they are doing something,” Robynn said.
Now it is our turn — take in a night of virtual theater with Woman Caught Unaware and support the arts in Salem.
Woman Caught Unaware
Written by Annie Fox. Directed by Patricia Wylie. Performed by Robynn Hayek.
When: 7 p.m. April 2-4 and 9-11
Cost: $15
Tickets: https://www.showtix4u.com/events/VeronaStudio
Author: Carlee Wright
Carlee Wright is a community instigator with a grand love for Salem and notably fashionable shoes (Hello, John Fluevog!) who turns waste into wearable art in her "spare" time.
