Burning Mom Illuminates The Citadel Stage with Uplifting Story of Renewal
Edmonton's Citadel Theatre is currently hosting a production that serves as a beacon of light during the dark winter months. Burning Mom, a one-woman show starring Susinn McFarlen, continues its successful run through March 8, offering audiences a heartfelt exploration of grief, growth, and unexpected adventure.
A Journey from Loss to Liberation
The production tells the moving story of Dorothy, a recently widowed woman grappling with the profound loss of her lifelong partner. Her husband's passing has left her feeling adrift and uncertain about her future direction. The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Dorothy decides to honor her late husband's adventurous spirit by embarking on a cross-continental pilgrimage to the famous Burning Man festival in the Nevada desert.
Written and directed by The Citadel's Associate Artistic Director Mieko Ouchi, the play is described as a "99.9% true story" based on Ouchi's own mother's experiences following her father's death. What begins as a story about processing grief evolves into a celebration of rediscovery and personal transformation.
Stellar Performance and Transformative Design
Susinn McFarlen delivers a remarkable solo performance as Dorothy, capturing the character's initial nervous energy and gradual evolution into a confident individual embracing new experiences. Over the course of the two-hour production, McFarlen masterfully portrays Dorothy's journey from uncertainty to self-assurance, creating a deeply authentic and engaging character arc.
The production's technical elements match the emotional journey on stage. The set design undergoes a remarkable transformation throughout the performance, beginning with a 26-foot recreational vehicle and gradually evolving into something spectacular that mirrors Dorothy's personal growth. Theater critics have praised this as potentially the best set design of the current season, particularly impressive given the intimate space of the Rice Theatre.
Universal Themes with Personal Resonance
While the story centers on a specific personal journey, its themes resonate universally. The narrative explores what it means to rebuild one's life after significant loss, the importance of honoring loved ones' memories while moving forward, and the courage required to step outside one's comfort zone. Dorothy's decision to keep her late husband's RV despite her children's objections becomes a powerful metaphor for holding onto meaningful connections while forging new paths.
The production balances emotional depth with moments of genuine humor and warmth. Dorothy's encounters at Burning Man—including unexpected meetings with festival participants and navigating unfamiliar social situations—add levity to her transformative journey while maintaining the story's emotional authenticity.
A February Highlight in Edmonton's Cultural Calendar
Running through March 8 at The Citadel Theatre, Burning Mom offers Edmonton audiences a particularly timely theatrical experience. The production's themes of renewal and finding light in darkness feel especially poignant during the cold February months, providing what many have described as an uplifting and heartwarming theatrical experience.
The limited engagement has generated significant interest, with tickets available through the Citadel Theatre's official website. For those seeking a production that combines exceptional solo performance, innovative stage design, and a story that celebrates human resilience, Burning Mom represents a highlight of Edmonton's winter theater season.
