A line between reality and delusion in 'Chamber Music'

Have you ever wondered what a meeting of female minds from different eras might be like? In The Baldwin School's Chamber Music by Arthur Kopit, this comes to life except with a twist: it takes place in an insane asylum.

This absurdist play chronicles the experiences of eight patients who believe that they are influential women from history, ranging from Gertrude Stein to Joan of Arc. These women meet to discuss the day to day life of the asylum and how they can prevent the attack they believe will be coming from the men's ward.

The Baldwin School's production of Chamber Music had a small cast, but it wasn't small on entertainment or talent. In every member of the cast, it was clear that these were patients in an insane asylum with various ticks and outrageous notions. However, the cast also managed to portray the famous women who their characters believed they were. The line between reality and delusion was clear and was guided by the costuming of each character.

The Woman in Aviatrix Outfit or Amelia Earhart, played by Lauren Fosnocht, was a voice of reason among the women. Fosnocht executed the role well with her well-timed quips and disbelieving attitude showcasing the insanity of the others. The Woman in Safari Outfit or Osa Johnson, played by Katie Mostek, is a hot headed explorer who is the hardened, stern one of the group. Mostek played the role with a ferocity that set her apart from the others, proving that Osa Johnson was a true fighter.

The Woman Who Plays Records or Constanze Mozart, played by Alexa Kent, was one of the sillier women, constantly playing music. Kent added a childish aspect to the group, contributing a much needed comic element to the production. The Woman in Queenly Spanish Garb or Queen Isabella I of Spain, played by Neelam Pandya, was a quieter woman, chiming in only when necessary. Pandya played the role well, keeping a straight face while the other women engaged in insane hilarity.

The costumes, designed by Laura Nguyan and Ishana Shyamalan, were intricate and appropriate. Each character wore scrubs with matching gray socks, showing that they were asylum patients. However, they added other articles of clothing to show their identity, such as a crown made out of coat hangers for Queen Isabella I. The women were identified in both of their identities and that is what truly made the costuming effective.

After seeing The Baldwin School's Chamber Music, you won't want to escape this insane asylum!