WEST LIBERTY — West Liberty University Theatre invites audiences to experience “The Welkin,” Lucy Kirkwood’s gripping and thought-provoking drama, running April 16-18 at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee performance on April 19 at 3 p.m. All performances will take place in the Kelly Theatre on the West Liberty University campus.

Directed by Theatre Professor Michael Aulick, “The Welkin” is a powerful exploration of justice, morality and the lives of women in 18th-century England. Centered on a jury of 12 women tasked with deciding the fate of a young woman accused of a capital crime, the play examines how personal experience, bias and societal constraints shape the pursuit of truth.

“This play asks urgent questions about who gets to decide what is true and whose voices are heard. The women are empaneled because of their expertise in childbirth, yet even they feel compelled to rely on the authority of a male doctor,” said Aulick. “Kirkwood sets the play in 1759, using the anticipated arrival of Halley’s Comet as a reminder of the cyclical nature of enforced gender roles for women. Though the story is historically grounded, its themes feel strikingly contemporary. As the comet passes overhead, it reminds us that the universe continues, indifferent to human suffering and injustice.”

The production features scenic design and technical direction by Christopher Rees and lighting design by Alex Franke. The assistant director is junior theatre major Eva Tennant, who has played a key role in shaping the rehearsal process and supporting the ensemble.

The cast includes Rowland Dodd, Daisy Deaton, Melinda Kreisberg, Makenna Berka, Alexandra Burdick, Traelyn Alton, Teegan Pugh, Lydia Hatten, Charlee Dunlap, Grey Woods, Willow Peyton, Avery Hall, L. Helsel, Kirsten Snatchko, Griffin Harder, Joshua Vetanze, Beau Atkinson and Chloe Derring.

Working with a large ensemble, the production emphasizes collaboration and dynamic storytelling. Students have engaged deeply with the text’s historical context through the work of dramaturg Joy Deaton, a junior studying history, while also connecting it to present-day conversations around justice and equity.

“Part of what makes ‘The Welkin’ so fun is all the challenges we’ve come across, including dialects, intimacy work, combat and learning how to move with 14 people onstage for most of the show,” said Deaton, senior theatre major. “It has also been great to work with such a talented cast, especially on a show that focuses so much on women. My cast mates and I have enjoyed delving into our characters, even imagining what they might be doing in the 21st century. I think Lizzy Luke would be an OB-GYN. It has all made The Welkin such a rewarding capstone experience.”

“Through this production, I’ve learned how to be brave, resilient, and witty while staying true to myself, much like Sally Poppy,” said Dodd, junior theatre major. “This experience has taken us on a whirlwind of emotions and brought the cast together in a powerful way. The message of the show is that being bold and speaking up for your beliefs truly matters. I hope it resonates with at least one person in the audience as much as it has with me.”

Audiences should be advised that “The Welkin” contains mature content including, but not limited to, depictions of violence, discussions of murder and capital punishment and simulated bodily functions. The play includes references to sexual assault, pregnancy loss, infant death and graphic descriptions of violence. It also portrays misogyny, class prejudice, and sizeist language reflective of 18th-century England.

Some audience members may find this material distressing. Viewer discretion is advised.

The show is an intimate look at how justice is served, and the audience will be seated on stage with the performers, so seating is limited.

Interested parties are encouraged to make reservations by calling 304-336-8277 and leaving a voicemail. Tickets are $15 for general admission, $10 for seniors and WLU employees, $8 for students (non-WLU) and $5 for WLU students.