Originally published in Northumberland News

“The Willow Quartet” — a story about grief, forgiveness and the strength it takes to let go — kicked off the Northumberland Players’ 2024 season this week at the Firehall Theatre in Cobourg.

Set on a porch under a beloved willow tree at an old family farmhouse, Kim (Anne-Marie Bouthillette), her mother Marjorie (Sheilah Currie) and estranged husband Ben (Don Mann) struggle in the aftermath of an unfathomable family tragedy.

Each are heartbroken and stuck in between their grief and coming to terms with their “new normal.” When Kim offers to host a musician — Jim (Michael Johnson), who is visiting town for a local arts festival — it does not take long for the visitor to bring a little light into Kim’s darkness. Kim becomes charmed by Jim, giving her temporary respite from her deep sorrow.

As Jim settles into the mix, making this trio a quartet, the truth about the family’s grief begins to surface, forcing them to face it head-on.

This is a small cast with a lot of chemistry, not to mention resilience — opening night was cancelled due to illness, but the show did go on.

“The Willow Quartet” is an emotional and intimate play, each actor giving an honest performance while walking a tricky line between heavy and humorous. Bouthillette and Mann give a moving portrayal of how we torture ourselves over the choices we make, especially in the deep depths of loss.

But most importantly, they remind us that when we are ready to move forward, forgiveness frees us from our grief.

It is always impossible to mention all volunteers that play such a key role in putting these performances together. We live in a community of so many talents and as always, the Northumberland Players offers a space for these artists to come together. Congratulations to everyone who brought this show together.