Inspiring classic at Lifeline

It’s life affirming in these dark times to return to a classic hero's journey, especially if the hero is a young girl. And Lifeline Theatre has the perfect tale: a revival of James Sie’s adaptation of Madeleine L’Engle’s Newberry Award winning science fiction story: A Wrinkle In Time. 

This is not really a play for children as it contemplates a terrifying darkness swallowing the universe, but the heroes are children: a prickly schoolgirl Meg Murry played by Manali Sunkara and her prodigy brother Charles Wallace played by talented child actor Rohan Link Francisco. They are accompanied on their journey across the universe by classmate Calvin played by the ever young Sam Hook. The supporting ensemble plays multiple characters ranging from Mom (Victoria Cruz) and Dad (Brian Tocherman) who went to work and never came home, as well as a host of entities including some magical supporters and frightening mind warping overlords. This cast of many helps Meg learn of her inner strength and draws her family back together again.   

The simple and imaginative set by Lindsay Mummert allows us to travel through the universe with our imaginations. Saskia Bakker’s puppet brings the family dog lovingly to life. 

It’s not a play just for children, but kids may find the lesson of the things people find annoying about you may actually be your superpower, and this all ages show takes us on a dangerous journey in an uplifting and smart way and finishes with an empowering conclusion. 

Lifeline has become an institution in its now 44 seasons, adapting classic literary works for the intimate stage in Rogers Park.  This play is a gem that needs to come out often to shine.  So stop scrolling and take it in!

A Wrinkle In Time is playing Fridays through Sundays at Lifeline Theatre at 6912 N Glenwood in Chicago through October 18th, 2026. For tickets and information go to https://lifelinetheatre.com/performances/2026-2027/a-wrinkle-in-time-2026/

Photos byJosh Bernaski

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