A Blaze of Human Emotion: Lumen Repertory Theatre Ignites the Stage with 'A Small Fire'

Lumen Repertory Theatre’s A Small Fire, directed by Brian Niece, delivers a profound exploration of human resilience and the intricate web of relationships, set against the backdrop of a harrowing existential crisis that threatens the very core of one’s being. The nuanced script and expert performances dissects the relational dynamics that both bind and challenge us, with an emotional depth that resonates profoundly.

In A Small Fire, the audience is drawn into the life-shattering ordeal of Emily Bridges, who is suddenly afflicted with a sensory loss that defies explanation, lacking both any apparent cause or cure. This profound crisis throws her once-controlled world into disarray, challenging her connections with her husband John, her daughter Jenny and her loyal employee Billy. As they navigate this uncharted territory, their deeply interwoven relationships are tested by the fear of the unknown, revealing the delicate balance between despair and hope in their struggle to adapt.

Brooks Anne Meirdierks, in her portrayal of Emily Bridges, captures a raw and relatable authenticity, riveting the audience from start to finish. She brings a genuineness to Emily’s hard exterior, forging a deep empathy among viewers. Her masterful depiction of Emily’s sensory loss is nuanced and heart-wrenchingly inspirational, navigating with grace and an affecting transparency.

One of the production’s most unforgettable moments, is the scene where John shares the joy and beauty of everything he is seeing at the wedding with Emily. Meirdierks’s ability to radiate joy, despite her character Emily’s inability to see, showcases a remarkable range of emotional depth. The scene is a testament to the power of Meirdierks’s performance, creating a visual and emotional spectacle that remains unseen yet vividly felt by the audience.

Bill Ratliff, as John Bridges, delivers a grounded, heartfelt performance, encapsulating the emotional journey of a husband overshadowed by his wife’s formidable presence. Ratliff portrays John with a subtle transformation from disconnectedness to a profound appreciation of life’s simple wonders, becoming the pillar of strength his wife needs.

James F. Webb III’s portrayal of Billy Fontaine defies stereotypes, bringing strength and resilience to a man who has overcome personal traumas. His ability to also convey Billy’s unabashed enthusiasm for a niche hobby adds a layer of depth and relatability to the character, showcasing Webb’s versatility in scenes filled with infectious energy.

Pauleen Conde, as Jenny Bridges, perfectly embodies her character. Conde’s Jenny is a powerful, nuanced mix of vulnerability and burgeoning self-assurance, struggling for identity and self-worth in the shadow of her father’s passivity.

Brian Niece’s direction and sound design elevate the production, blending raw realism with a cinematic ambiance. A Small Fire unfolds as if it were a slice of life, as if a documentary crew has intimately captured a family in the midst of navigating one of their most challenging periods. The script, brimming with quotable moments of brilliance, truly shines in its portrayal of the mundane, uncomfortable and imperfect aspects of life. Niece’s knack for drawing out the unspoken and the nuanced from his actors lends a palpable authenticity to every scene. It’s in these ‘warts and all’ moments that the play finds its heart, presenting a story that’s as authentic in its portrayal as it is stirring in its affect. The synergy between cast members further enhances the play’s documentary-like realism, making each relationship and conflict feel lived-in and genuine.

The play’s emotional depth is further amplified by the lighting design, courtesy of Michael Livingston, which skillfully underscores the evolving tones of the narrative. Livingston’s utilization of light, color and movement to capture a moment of intense passion is especially remarkable, enhancing the narrative with vivid and sophisticated visual storytelling. Claire Cimino’s understated yet elegant set design establishes an immersive atmosphere, offering a tangible sense of space and organization, providing a fresh canvas for the cast and crew to work their magic.

This production is a must-see for anyone who appreciates theater that moves, challenges and changes you. A Small Fire doesn’t just burn brightly; it illuminates the resilience of human bonds during adversity and celebrates our capacity to find beauty amid the ruins.

A Small Fire runs Friday, February 16 through Saturday, March 2 at the San Marco Church.

For more information, full cast and crew credits and links to tickets, visit the A Small Fire page here on JaxPlays.