by Robyn Roberts
The James Earl Jones Theatre in New York currently hosts Liberation, a compelling two-timeline story penned by the talented playwright, Bess Wohl, and brought vividly to life under the meticulous direction of Whitney White. This fresh production offers a thoughtful exploration of complex, intergenerational themes, enriched by captivating performances from lead actors Betsy Aidem, Audrey Corsa, Kayla Davion, Susannah Flood, and more fierce femmes with a few gents. With its blend of emotional depth and sharp dialogue, Liberation on Broadway invites us to reconsider notions of freedom, legacy, and connection in a modern world.
At its heart, Liberation unfolds as an intimate dialogue between women whose lives intersect in unexpected ways, beginning in 1970s Ohio. The story centers on a young, ambitious journalist named Lizzie, who starts a small “consciousness-raising” group, bringing local women together to discuss evolving their lives and the world for the better, by exploring themes of sisterhood, ambition, and societal constraints. Betsy Aidem is Margie, a woman grappling with the shadows of her past and the memories of societal upheaval she once witnessed. Enter Kayla Davion’s character, a younger woman searching for her own identity and a sense of liberation amid contemporary struggles. Their encounter sparks difficult conversations about history, trauma, and the fleeting nature of freedom. In the present day timeline, Lizzie’s daughter revisits her mother’s past, piecing together the history of the group and the choices her mother made, questioning the legacy and the true meaning of liberation.
Wohl’s writing deftly balances the personal and political, weaving moments of tenderness with biting honesty. The narrative does not rely on grand spectacle but thrives on the nuanced exchange of ideas and emotions between the characters, making the theatre space a crucible for reflection and empathy.
Director Whitney White’s vision shines throughout the production, creating a staging that feels both minimalistic and deeply resonant. The intimate setting of the James Earl Jones Theatre complements this approach, fostering a sense of immediacy and engagement that draws the audience directly into the emotional landscape of the story unfolding before you.
Betsy Aidem’s portrayal of Margie is a masterclass in subtlety, her performance conveying the weight of lived experience with a quiet strength that commands attention without overwhelming insistence. Kayla Davion as Joanne complements her character beautifully, infusing youthful urgency and vulnerability into the dynamic between the characters. The cast’s chemistry anchors the play’s themes and invites viewers to linger on the complexities of liberation itself—not just as a concept but as a lived reality.
For a contemporary audience, Liberation resonates on multiple levels. It challenges us to consider how personal histories are intertwined with broader social narratives and how the quest for freedom can take many forms, from political activism to the intimate act of personal truth-telling. Bess Wohl’s script, supported by excellent direction and acting, does not provide easy answers but opens a space for meaningful dialogue, which oftentimes lends more to the cause than a firm resolution ever could.
Moreover, the inclusion of powerful female leads emphasizes the voices that are even still, too often marginalized in mainstream theatre, adding crucial perspectives to ongoing cultural conversations.
Liberation is a testament to the power of theater to confront difficult themes with grace and emotional honesty, leaving audiences both moved and contemplative as they exit onto the ever colorful and always righteous New York City streets. Don’t miss Liberation on Broadway before it ends on February 1st. For tickets: https://liberationbway.com/