by Macey Levin
Mark St. Germain. a prolific local playwright, is known for “Freud’s Last Session,” which was filmed starring Anthony Hopkins, and “Becoming Dr. Ruth” among other wonderful productions seen in the Berkshire area. His most recent play, “Magdalene,” is a mesmerizing exploration of memory and interpretation under the guidance of new co-artistic directors Chris Blake and Michelle Ong-Hendrick at Chester Theatre Company, Chester, Massachusetts.
In his program notes St. Germain writes, “I don’t think I woke up to the shameful treatment of women in the Catholic Church until my daughter was born.” This is the premise of his play… Why can’t women be ordained in organized Christian churches and to whom, if anyone, did Christ intend to oversee his teachings?
Mary Magdalene (Danielle Skraastad), whom the burgeoning church has denigrated, is living in exile. Eighteen years after Christ’s crucifixion she is visited by the apostle Peter (Adam LeFevre) who tries to secure her assistance in order to fend off Paul, another apostle, for control of the new Church. Mary, for very obvious reasons, is reluctant to assist Peter.
Danielle Skraastad as Mary Magdalene and Adam LeFevre as the apostle Peter in Mark St. Germain’s “Magdalene”, directed by Keira Naughton, at the Chester Theatre Company. 
Adam LeFevre as the apostle Peter in Mark St. Germain’s “Magdalene”, directed by Keira Naughton, at the Chester Theatre Company. 
Danielle Skraastad as Mary Magdalene and Adam LeFevre as the apostle Peter in Mark St. Germain’s “Magdalene”, directed by Keira Naughton, at the Chester Theatre Company. 
Danielle Skraastad as Mary Magdalene and Adam LeFevre as the apostle Peter in Mark St. Germain’s “Magdalene”, directed by Keira Naughton, at the Chester Theatre Company. 
Danielle Skraastad as Mary Magdalene in Mark St. Germain’s “Magdalene”, directed by Keira Naughton, at the Chester Theatre Company. 
Danielle Skraastad as Mary Magdalene and Adam LeFevre as the apostle Peter in Mark St. Germain’s “Magdalene”, directed by Keira Naughton, at the Chester Theatre Company. 
Danielle Skraastad as Mary Magdalene in Mark St. Germain’s “Magdalene”, directed by Keira Naughton, at the Chester Theatre Company. 
Cast and creative team of Mark St. Germain’s “Magdalene”, directed by Keira Naughton, at the Chester Theatre Company. 
Set by Juliana von Haubrich for Mark St. Germain’s “Magdalene” at the Chester Theatre Company. 
They argue about various incidents, in particular, the fish and loaves story, as well as the philosophies cited in the Torah. As they recall Christ’s life they dispute the meaning of his teachings, intentions and abilities. They vie with each other over their own roles and importance. She then alludes to the possibility that she was carrying his child. Mary can read and write, which Peter and most of Christ’s followers can not do. Yet, she cannot be considered for any leadership in Peter’s new church. He refers to the fact that she is a woman, therefore not worthy. Of course, there is a philosophical dispute. Some of it amusing and some touching as in the scene when they pray together culminating with her line, “Come to us!”
St. Germain’s witty script is also filled with engrossing insights and a few familiar but resounding platitudes. As impressive as the work is, the play does need some pruning.
Skraastad and LeFevre play beautifully together as they counter the other’s arguments and recollections of their lives with Christ. She is feisty and logical in contrast to his sometimes bumbling speech patterns and explanations. They are both firm in their recollections as they bicker, parry and thrust trying to best each other. Their sharp performances are guided by director Keira Naughton who brings a touching sensitivity to the gentler scenes as well as the contentious moments. She keeps the play moving at a comfortable pace.
Juliana Von Haubrich’s set of Mary’s retreat has a feeling of warmth amidst the earth colors of the room’s embellishments. The lighting design by Lara Dubin keeps the focus on the room while also backlighting the set. The costumes by Charles Schoonmaker represent the current life status of the characters.
“Magdalene” is yet another rewarding example of St. Germain’s provocative canon of plays and Chester”s penchant for producing timely and provocative theater.
Magdalene by Mark St. Germain; Director: Keira Naughton; Cast: Danielle Skraastad (Mary), Adam LeFevre (Peter); Scenic Design: Juliana von Haubrich; Costume Design: Charles Schoonmaker; Lighting Design: Lara Dubin; Sound Design: James McNamara; Stage Manager: Nicole Wiegert; Running time: 90 minutes, no intermission; June 19 – June 20, 2025; Reservations and information: 413-354-7771; chestertheatre.org