Vivian Bearing is 50 and in her prime. She has dedicated her life to deciphering and interpreting the metaphysical poetry of John Donne and is a highly respected Professor at the height of her career as an English literary scholar. But she’s just found out she’s dying.

This powerfully imagined play is cuttingly funny and beautifully poignant. It is not primarily a play about cancer, nor about the wit of John Donne – it is a play about the value of human warmth, the balance between head and heart; a play about life, not death.

Twenty years after winning the Pulitzer Prize, Wit is as powerful and relevant as ever – to all of us.

Reviews

“★★★★ A spare and moving production balances the cerebral and emotional facets of Margaret Edson’s life-and-death drama just about perfectly. Cheryl Ward gives an outstanding performance.” Jason Blake, Audrey

“Every once in a while a play comes along that bonds people together in extraordinary ways. The play isn’t a tearful lecture on how to die; it’s a dry-eyed lesson on how to live–with simplicity and kindness.” The Boston Globe

“….a genuinely life-enhancing play about death.” The Guardian UK

“A one-of-a-kind experience: wise, thoughtful, witty and wrenching.” Vincent Canby, The New York Times Year in Review

Creative credits

Playwright Margaret Edson
Director Helen Tonkin
Set and Lighting Designer Victor Kalka
Music and Sound Designer Adam Jones
Costume and Properties Designer Kaitlyn Symons
Stage Manager Maddison Huber
Poster Image Daniel Regan Photography

Cast
Cheryl Ward as Vivian Bearing
Chantelle Jamieson as Dr Jessica (Jason) Posner
Yannick Lawry as Harvey Kelekian/Mr Bearing
Hailey McQueen as Susie Monahan
Jan Langford- Penny as E.M. Ashford
Matt Abotomy as Lab Technician/Clinical Fellow/Student

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