Nonprofit theatrical company Theater4All is set to premiere its inaugural production, Crone Creed, September 30 through October 17 as part of the El Portal Theatre’s historic centennial season.
The play tells the story of a fractured family whose supernatural gifts threaten to alter the course of human history. It follows Vita, a young woman whose life is shattered by religious upheaval and betrayal in medieval Europe. Reborn on the late-1800s American frontier as part of an ancient lineage of mystical women known as the Crones, she discovers her brother has also returned through time as part of a corrupting evil force. As their conflict unfolds across eras, Vita must confront questions of power, loyalty and resistance in a struggle where belief itself shapes reality.
“We believe that the play’s message will be different for every audience member, but ultimately, it’s about hope in the face of ever-mounting challenges, be they family or societal pressures,” founding producing artistic director John Epstein explains. “We are facing unprecedented issues in today’s world, from environmental and economic to political, educational and religious. This story interweaves many of these issues, so we challenge the audience to think about these questions and not be afraid to question or debate their views.”
Epstein, who co-wrote Crone Creed alongside creative artistic consultant Casey Morgan and T. Theresa Scarano over the course of four years, says that, in addition to telling a compelling story, it embodies Theater4All’s mission: “to make theater more accessible, and to expose the next generation to this wonderful art form.” He founded the organization at a time when the industry is under pressure, beset by rising costs, shorter attention spans among potential theatergoers and a general lack of support for the arts.
“It is a sad thing, as theater is an essential experience that allows for a shared human connection. There are also the ever-growing economic challenges for an audience member to see a show,” Epstein shares.
Theater4All endeavors to live up to its name by creating opportunities for local communities to discover and experience the art from. It works to reduce financial and structural barriers through targeted, subsidized ticket programs, educational outreach and productions in nontraditional venues, such as parks and recreation centers.
“Theater4All’s goal is to have full audiences at every performance,” Epstein says. “I hope Toluca Lake residents and surrounding neighbors will come to support us and see our amazing cast in Crone Creed at the El Portal!”
For more information about Theater4All and to purchase tickets, visit theater4all.org.