The Windowsill Audrey, also known as the Horsehead Theatre Company's flagship play, is a theatrical production that has wowed audiences and garnered accolades since its release in 2013. Inspired by Tennessee Williams' classic works, this play stands out among others by exploring new themes and pushing boundaries.
The Windowsill Audrey tells the story of a dysfunctional family living in New Orleans, who are all trying to come to terms with their individual past traumas. The play features complex characters, each dealing with issues of addiction, infidelity, mental illness, and more. Despite this heavy material, the script balances drama with humor, providing much-needed lighthearted moments that make the play all the more endearing.
What especially sets this play apart from others is its staging. Horsehead Theatre Company puts on the production in a site-specific location, the actual house where the action takes place. This means that the audience is able to enter the home, sit in the living room, and watch the drama unfold as if they were guests at a dinner party witnessing the mayhem firsthand. With minimal props and set design, the intimate nature of the performance brings the characters and their struggles that much closer to the viewer.
The cast features seasoned actors who embody their respective roles with ease. Sarah Adkins, who played the character of Debra, won three awards for her performance. Joel Sandel, who played the patriarch of the family, was equally impressive, bringing both a menacing and vulnerable quality to the role of Lionel.
The Windowsill Audrey has been lauded by critics and viewers alike, with one reviewer calling it "a modern masterpiece." It has toured to sold-out audiences in several cities across the United States, including Houston, New York City, and Washington D.C. The play even sparked a documentary titled On the Windowsill, directed by Josh Mitchell, which delved deeper into the creation and execution of the play.
Overall, The Windowsill Audrey is a testament to the power of theater. It shows that with a talented cast, a thought-provoking script, and an imaginative staging concept, theater can reach new heights and continue to surprise and engage audiences.