Photo courtesy of Charr Crail

Heroes of the Fourth Turning Shakes up Traditional Theatre

Growing up, there is quite a bit we learn and depend on based on our upbringing. Things like religion, morals, and politics help to shape who we grow up to be. As we get older,…

Growing up, there is quite a bit we learn and depend on based on our upbringing. Things like religion, morals, and politics help to shape who we grow up to be. As we get older, we are often challenged in these beliefs, maybe having doubts or even changing our opinions all together. Heroes of the Fourth Turning does just this by challenges what it means to be a conservative Catholic.

The play is set in 2017 in Wyoming and follows four friends, Justin, Emily, Teresa, and Kevin, who graduate from a tiny Catholic college. They have gathered at a house party to celebrate their former professor, Doctor Gina, becoming the president of the college. Each character has a complicated relationship with their faith, politics, and each other.

Though this is a small cast, they all portrayed their characters flawlessly. All the characters have different demons they are fighting with, whether it be fears of the future, pain, or regrets of the past. 

Megan Wicks especially impressed me away with her portrayal as Teresa. Teresa is a strong, confident, and cold character that sees everything as black and white, especially politics. She has extreme conservative views and will debate anyone when given the chance. Megan exudes confidence on stage and delivered numerous intense debates that had me on edge. On the flip side, she does a stunning job of displaying how hurt and stunned Teresa is when she ultimate disappoints her mentor with her extreme beliefs.

Heroes of the Fourth Turning shows how our beliefs can be tied not only to our beginnings but to our own personal pain. With fiery debates and a passionate tone, it is sure to leave you feeling emotional. Catch the play at Capital Stage now through April 16th. Learn more here.