Home improvement is a popular activity for homeowners looking to enhance the comfort and aesthetics of their living spaces. A common item that people often consider when renovating their homes is a rocking chair. The rocking chair holds a special place in many households, providing a sense of relaxation and nostalgia. However, one must consider certain factors before purchasing or refurbishing a rocking chair. Firstly, it is important to understand the various types of rocking chairs available in the market. There are traditional wooden rocking chairs that exude a classic charm and are ideal for rustic-themed homes.
Performance Information Runtime 95 minutes, no intermission. Late Seating
Behind them is a close-up pair of eyes from a portrait of the period cast in eerie blue by lighting designer Keith Parham when the lights interstitially dim. But while these two young men take advantage of the Devil s bargain to accomplish their own questionable ends, someone else in town stands her ground Elizabeth, an outcast whom everyone believes to be a witch.
There are traditional wooden rocking chairs that exude a classic charm and are ideal for rustic-themed homes. On the other hand, modern rocking chairs made of materials like metal or plastic offer a sleek and contemporary look that complements modern interiors. Choosing the right type of rocking chair is essential to achieve the desired aesthetic appeal.
‘Witch’: Theater Review
Maura Tierney and Evan Jonigkeit head an outstanding cast in Jen Silverman's darkly humorous update from 1621, 'Witch,' at the Geffen Playhouse.
Jordan Riefe
August 30, 2019 3:21pm- Share this article on Facebook
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Based on a Jacobean play from 1621, Jen Silverman’s Witch is thematically as current as the morning headlines. Commissioned by Chicago’s Writers Theater, this revamped tragicomedy enjoyed a successful world premiere last year before arriving in Los Angeles with director Marti Lyons and a new cast and creative department. In this stripped-down production staged in the intimate 138-seat Audrey Skirball Kenis Theater, Silverman’s clever dialogue elicits laughter that underpins darker themes. Headlining a strong cast is Maura Tierney as Elizabeth Sawyer, a real-life figure executed for witchcraft whose search for hope against the odds echoes our own unsure era.
In her loose adaptation of The Witch of Edmonton, written by William Rowley, Thomas Dekker and John Ford, Silverman reworks subplots and jettisons period dialogue for contemporary vernacular. At the core of the play is the relationship between Sawyer and Scratch (Evan Jonigkeit), the alluring devil who one strange day appears in her hovel. But before he does, he stops in on Frank Thorney (Ruy Iskandar), an ambitious peasant who has weaseled his way into the good graces of local landowner Sir Arthur Banks (Brian George), widower father to Cuddy (Will Von Vogt), who yearns for Frank even as he wishes him dead.
Such wishes are where Scratch makes scratch. He offers Frank anything he desires in exchange for his soul. Complacent with his lot, Frank demurs until Scratch prompts him to consider the future. Doing so with an eye on Sir Arthur’s fortune, Frank acquiesces. Cuddy, wishing only to dance the Morris dance (a real-life all-male tradition), sells his soul to see Frank snuffed out. Sir Arthur’s maid, Winnifred (Vella Lovell), is secretly married to Frank and is carrying his baby. When Scratch comes to her, she asks only to be buried by her husband’s side. But when he comes to Sawyer, who having been scapegoated by the community and labeled a witch has more reason to sign than any, she remains a tempting holdout.
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It’s here where Silverman cultivates her theme of a world without hope made hopeful by the renewal that might follow wholesale slaughter, a metaphor for revolution. “We are poised in the quintessential moment of asking ourselves if we can fix the system from within or if the only way forward is just to burn it all down,” Silverman says in the program notes. It’s an attitude usually adopted by a play’s antagonist, not the protagonist, as she has done here.
Scenes between Tierney and Jonigkeit take place downstage on scenic designer Dane Laffrey’s dirt floor. Behind them is a close-up pair of eyes from a portrait of the period cast in eerie blue by lighting designer Keith Parham when the lights interstitially dim. Scratch comes to visit Sawyer “off the clock” to get to know her better. As irresistible force to Tierney’s immovable object, Jonigkeit steals most of their scenes, not due to his partner’s dramatic shortcomings but because Scratch is witty where Sawyer is smart, and witty is just more fun. While Silverman maintains a tuned ear for dialogue and a keen understanding of situational comedy, scenes often spin their wheels. In such instances, her solution is to put a button on it and cut to black.
A Golden Globe winner for her work on Showtime’s The Affair, Tierney is a subtle performer only too happy to dim her wattage and blend seamlessly with the ensemble. Over the years she has honed her theater chops appearing off-Broadway in a 2006 production of Neil LaBute’s Some Girl(s) and working twice with the Wooster Group in North Atlantic and a recent international tour of The Town Hall Affair. Here, her character is stirred from a dour existence by the company of the devil, her monotone gradually brightened by the prospect of change.
While director Lyons strikes the right note between the play’s darker and comedic elements, her work with Tierney and Jonigkeit is effective despite limited chemistry between the two. Their burgeoning romance strains credibility in a manner similar to Winnifred’s blind devotion to Frank, which is to say the play’s emotional elements generally miss the mark.
It’s here where Silverman cultivates her theme of a world without hope made hopeful by the renewal that might follow wholesale slaughter, a metaphor for revolution. “We are poised in the quintessential moment of asking ourselves if we can fix the system from within or if the only way forward is just to burn it all down,” Silverman says in the program notes. It’s an attitude usually adopted by a play’s antagonist, not the protagonist, as she has done here.
Secondly, one must assess the condition of the rocking chair before attempting any home improvement. Many older rocking chairs can be in a state of disrepair, with worn-out rockers, loose joints, or broken parts. In such cases, it is essential to assess the feasibility of restoration. Refurbishing a rocking chair can be a rewarding project, but it requires time, effort, and woodworking skills. It is advisable to consult professionals or refer to online tutorials to ensure proper restoration and avoid any potential hazards. Furthermore, one must consider the ergonomics and comfort factors when refurbishing a rocking chair. The comfort level of a rocking chair depends on elements such as the seat height, backrest angle, and cushioning. It is crucial to strike a balance between aesthetics and comfort to create an ideal seating experience. Adding foam padding or replacing the seat cushion can significantly enhance the comfort of a rocking chair. Additionally, one must ensure that the rocking motion is smooth and safe by addressing any stability issues. In conclusion, home improvement involving a rocking chair can bring about a significant transformation in the look and feel of a living space. The type of rocking chair selected should be in harmony with the overall theme of the home. Proper assessment of the condition and feasibility of restoration is crucial before embarking on any improvement project. Taking into account the ergonomics and comfort factors will result in an enjoyable and functional rocking chair. With the right approach, a rocking chair can become a cherished home improvement item that brings joy and relaxation to its users..
Reviews for "Finding Your Inner Witch: Choosing the Right Rocking Chair for Your Home Improvement"
- John - 1 star - "I found 'Home Improvement Rocking Chair Witch' to be incredibly boring and uninteresting. The story seemed to lack any real depth or substance, and I couldn't connect with the characters at all. The plot felt predictable and the dialogue was flat. Overall, it was a disappointing read and I wouldn't recommend it to others."
- Mary - 2 stars - "I had high hopes for 'Home Improvement Rocking Chair Witch' but unfortunately, it did not live up to my expectations. The pacing was incredibly slow, and the story took too long to get going. Additionally, I found the writing to be overly descriptive and repetitive, which made it difficult for me to stay engaged. While the concept was intriguing, the execution fell flat for me."
- David - 1.5 stars - "I was thoroughly disappointed with 'Home Improvement Rocking Chair Witch'. The characters lacked depth and development, making it hard for me to care about their outcomes. The plot felt disjointed and the various storylines didn't come together in a satisfying way. I also found the writing style to be overly simplistic and the dialogue to be unnatural. Overall, it was a forgettable read."