Sometimes, love can lead to adventure and sometimes, loss can do the same. These are the themes explored in The Wilds by the WONDERHEADS, presented by Rosebud Theatre. In their signature theatre style of wordless storytelling and full-face masks, the WONDERHEADS have created a whimsical world of curiosity. The play is quiet and needs a bit of patience, because it doesn’t provide magic instantaneously. You have to allow the story to breathe and unfold.
The play tells of Wendell (Pedro M. Siqueira) and Tilda (Loreto Espinoza) who are living their lives in the forest. You catch a glimpse of their relationship and their time together as Tilda does her photography practice and Wendell enjoys her company. The adventure begins when Wendell discovers that his wife and their shared tree are missing, so he goes into the wilderness to find them, following the path of an enchanted leaf. Along the way he meets mysterious creatures and a lurking presence. He finds his way through the Wilds and learns a lot about himself and his love.
Co-creatives Andrew Phoenix and Kate Braidwood have designed a lovely theatrical experience, with stop motion animation, creative puppetry, and engaging storytelling. As is their signature, The Wilds is a lovely little story told through wonder. The play features music that is fittingly whimsical, composed by The Singer and the Songwriter (Rachel Garcia and Thu Tran), and their tunes uplift the narrative.
This isn’t a typical play and story. It’s quiet and allows for the imagination to take over. But every aspect of the storytelling and presentation is thoughtful and based in awe. It’s such a magical little story, told in a astounding way.
The WONDERHEADS are having a really quick run of The Wild at Rosebud Theatre and it only plays until March 15th. More information is available online.
Photo Credit: Tori Pintar.