The Tin Roof Theatre Company is set to premiere its latest production, “Ladies in Retirement,” on November 1, 2023, at the Fargo Masonic Center in Fargo, North Dakota. This psychological thriller, penned by Edward Percy and Reginald Denham, delves into the complexities of family loyalty and the darker aspects of human relationships.
Set in an 1880s English farmhouse, the narrative unfolds around devoted housekeeper Ellen Creed and retired actress Leonora Fiske, who live a peaceful life until disruption arrives in the form of Ellen’s eccentric sisters. As their visit lingers, the household’s tranquility unravels, revealing deep-seated tensions and psychological turmoil.
Karla Pederson, who portrays Leonora, offers insight into the story’s depth. “It could have been called ‘Murder on the Marshes,’ but we don’t want to give anything else away,” she said. The play blends dark themes with humor, inviting audiences to reflect on the toll that unhealthy family dynamics can take on one’s sanity.
Directorial Debut and Talented Cast
This production marks the directorial debut of local actor Craig Roath. With his focus on movement and allowing actors the freedom to explore their roles, Roath emphasizes the exceptional talent of the cast. “The best thing about it is our cast is so good that they make my job very easy,” he remarked.
At the center of the drama are Ellen and her sisters, Louisa and Emily. Portrayed by Amanda Eide, Ellen is characterized as a fiercely protective mother figure, dedicated to supporting her sisters financially due to their unique challenges. Eide explains her character’s motivation: “It’s my job as Ellen to make sure I financially support these women because they can’t work due to personalities or their health.”
The dynamic between Ellen and her charming yet cunning nephew, Albert, played by Matt Smith, introduces further complications. Smith describes Albert as a con artist with a complex personality. “He’s a bit of a con artist, a cad, but also at the core of him, he’s a little pathetic as well,” he said, hinting at the character’s layered motivations.
Exploring Family Bonds and Moral Dilemmas
Characters such as Sister Theresa, played by Barbara Cihak, add moral depth to the unfolding drama. Pederson notes that Sister Theresa’s role leads audiences to ponder the extent one might go for the sake of family. “She sheds light on what everybody kind of wrestles with,” she stated, emphasizing the universal relevance of the play’s themes.
As the narrative progresses, the audience will experience the emotional turbulence that arises from familial ties. The interactions among the characters highlight the oscillating nature of love and conflict inherent in close relationships. Eide illustrates this dynamic, saying, “We will fight like cats and dogs, and then we’ll calm down and just be normal again.”
The performances promise to captivate audiences, leaving them contemplating the intricate web of emotions that define family bonds, whether in 1880s England or contemporary settings.
“Ladies in Retirement” will be performed at the Fargo Masonic Center at 7:30 p.m. on November 1, with additional shows at 2:00 p.m. on November 2 and 7:30 p.m. from November 6 to 8. Tickets are available at the door or online at tinrooftheatre.org.
The Tin Roof Theatre Company is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to enriching the community through dramatic productions, supported by grants and community funding. This article is part of a content partnership with The Arts Partnership, a nonprofit focused on fostering the arts in Fargo, Moorhead, and West Fargo. For more information, visit theartspartnership.net.