FSU student production heads to NYC for off-Broadway run of 'Secrets' | Theater review

In the captivating depths of White Mouse Productions' “The Secrets We Keep,” which just finished its run at the FSU Lab Theater April 25-27, audiences are transported into a realm where Slavic folklore intertwines with the haunting echoes of history.

White Mouse Productions is a student theater company at Florida State University but is not a part of the FSU School of Theatre and produced the show themselves. This month, White Mouse is taking "Secrets" to New York City. The musical will be at the American Theatre of Actors from May 23-26.

Set against the backdrop of the Holocaust, the narrative follows Luba, a Jewish Polish woman turned into a rusalka (feminine entity in Slavic folklore), who embarks on a journey of revenge and redemption. As she grapples with themes of vengeance, humanity, forgiveness, and the complex nature of good and evil, the rusalki confront the harsh realities of discrimination and persecution, echoing the silenced voices of the past.

This production of "The Secrets We Keep" represents a fusion of art and history, offering audiences a profound exploration of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. Directed by Danielle Wirsansky and featuring a talented cast and crew, this thought-provoking musical promises to leave a lasting impact. Book and lyrics are by Wirsansky, with music by Frank Sanchez, Shannon Wolf, & Jane Achenbach.

This musical was developed through the Elie Wiesel Social Action Fellowship and is performed in NYC in collaboration with Valley Beit Midrash.

Southern Shakespeare: Bard's language lured young actor into Southern Shakespeare's 'The Winter's Tale'

At its heart, “The Secrets We Keep” is a journey of discovery and redemption, as two women, Kat and Liesa, embark on a quest to unearth their ancestry origins amidst the enigmatic world of the rusalki. Within its intricate narrative, the specter of the Holocaust looms large, delicately interwoven into the fabric of the story, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring scars of history.

Central to the production’s thematic depth is the portrayal of Luba, a Jewish woman trapped in the liminal space between life and death as a rusalki. Through Luba’s journey of remorse and redemption, we are confronted with the stark realities of the Holocaust, as the sins of the past continue to reverberate through the lives of those left behind.

Writer and director Wirsansky’s masterful vision infuses every aspect of the production with a sense of profound authenticity and emotional resonance. From the meticulously crafted set designs to the evocative lighting panels that seamlessly transition between worlds, every element serves to immerse the audience in the haunting beauty of the rusalki’s realm.

The costumes, too, are a testament to the production’s attention to detail, offering a glimpse into the intricacies of each character’s identity. As the rusalki emerge from the depths of the deep water, their ethereal presence is brought to life through exquisite costume design allowing them to stand out as mythical beings of otherworldly beauty and sorrow.

But perhaps the true heart of “The Secrets We Keep” lies in the extraordinary performances of its cast, led by the incomparable Lynn Pineda as the tortured Luba, alongside the notable voices of Erin Yoffee as Dobra and Presley Zyzk while portraying Kinga, the ensemble as a whole brings a depth of emotion and nuance to their characters that is mesmerizing.

From powerful solos to breathtaking ensemble numbers, each song reverberates with a haunting beauty that lingers long after the final curtain falls. Through expertly choreographed sequences and harmonious vocal harmonies, the cast transports the audience on a journey of heartbreak and hope, weaving a spellbinding tapestry of music and emotion.

Music venues: The times they are a-changin' but The Moon is shining bright 40 years on

In “The Secrets We Keep,” passion and technical precision converge to create a theatrical experience that is as unforgettable as it is profound. With its seamless blend of myth, history, and human drama, this modern musical stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate the darkest corners of the human experience.

The journey continues off-Broadway at the American Theatre of Actors from May 23-26. Visit ticketsource.us/white-mouse-theatre-productions.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: FSU student theater takes 'The Secrets We Keep' from FSU to NYC