Embracing the Feline Essence: A Captivating Exploration of "Wink"

In the realm of modern theater, where the lines between savagery and civilization blur, Jen Silverman's masterful dark comedy "Wink" stands as a testament to the complexities of the human condition. This brilliant production, currently gracing the stage at Second Thought Theatre, invites audiences to delve into the contradictions that define our existence, where the pursuit of enlightenment collides with the primal instincts that lurk within.

Unraveling the Paradoxes of the Human Experience

The Feline Philosopher and the Unhinged Couple

At the heart of this captivating narrative lies Wink, a sniffing, pawing, philosophizing cat that becomes the catalyst for a profound exploration of the human psyche. Portrayed with delicate precision by Garret Storms, Wink's matter-of-fact declaration, "I hunt. I kill. I find pleasure," serves as a stark contrast to the unraveling of the dysfunctional couple, Gregor and Sofie, played with remarkable intensity by Omar Padilla and Lauren LeBlanc.As the play unfolds, the audience bears witness to the gradual role reversal between the cat and the humans, a testament to the fluidity of identity and the fragility of the line between savagery and civilization. Wink, once clad in a loose slip as he contemplates his nature, dons a shirt and tie, while Gregor, initially in a three-piece suit, finds himself reduced to a loincloth made of animal skin.

The Therapist's Descent into Madness

Amidst the chaos, the therapist, Dr. Frans, portrayed with a captivating frenzy by John M. Flores, offers a glimpse into the depths of human despair. His advice to his patients, "Shove it down!" and then take a vacation, underscores the disconnect between the pursuit of mental well-being and the reality of the human condition.As the play progresses, the scenes between Storms and Flores take on a poignant quality, as Wink interrogates the motivations behind human behavior and the doctor struggles to provide a coherent explanation. This interplay highlights the profound questions that lie at the heart of the human experience, challenging the audience to confront their own assumptions and biases.

The Transformation of Sofie and the Tug of War Between Savagery and Civilization

Sofie's own transformation into Roland, the beret-wearing revolutionary of her dreams, further underscores the play's exploration of the duality within the human psyche. The set, designed by Justin Locklear, reflects this tension, blending the well-appointed living room and kitchen with nature-conjuring tones of green and brown, leaving the audience to ponder whether we have truly reached enlightenment or if we are still trapped in the untamed jungle.

The Dry Wit and Shifting Tones of "Wink"

The contrast between the play's strange turns and its reasonable tone is the key to the dry wit of "Wink." Lighting designer Niels Winter's approach, which illuminates an outline of Gregor and Sofie's home with a shifting, twinkling color palette, acts as a mood ring, reflecting the play's ability to seamlessly transition between humor and horror.

A Standout Production in the Season

In a season filled with remarkable theatrical offerings, Second Thought's production of "Wink" stands out as a true highlight. The taut direction of Jenna Burnett, coupled with the exceptional performances of the ensemble cast, creates a captivating and thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the curtain falls.