William & Mary Theatre and Performance Second Season Presents...
The Skriker
Written by Caryl Churchill
Directed by Anya Ruzicka
April 10-12, 2025 at 7:30pm
April 13, 2025 at 2:00pm
Phi Beta Kappa Memorial Hall Studio Theatre
601 Jamestown Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185
Enter Caryl Churchill's The Skriker, where ancient folklore meets the harsh realities of the modern day in the dark and mesmerizing Underworld. Follow the predicament of Josie and Lily, two young women as they are seduced by the Skriker, an ancient shape shifting fairy attempting to lure them into her haunting and unpredictable realm. As their story unfolds, themes of mental illness, environmental decay, generational trauma, and the loss of childhood innocence emerge, creating a thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the final curtain falls. With its hypnotic dialogue and surreal visuals, The Skriker offers a powerful and immersive journey that will captivate your senses and leave you questioning the boundaries between the real and the fantastical. Don’t miss the chance to witness a performance that pushes the limits of storytelling and imagination— prepare to be spellbound.
The Skriker explores and depicts mature themes such as sexual assault, abuse, neglect, violence, self harm, suicide, and fear. The Skriker as a character is a menacing, otherworldly figure who manipulates reality and preys on human fears. No actor is hurt during the performance, however there are staged fights that include a prop knife throughout the show. Due to its unsettling atmosphere and intense themes, we recommend it for a more mature audience. The Skriker Cast and Production Staff has handled these themes with care and concern with the help of the William & Mary Theatre and Performance Department, Someone You Know, and the William & Mary Wellness Center.
To provide a safe space to decompress, we welcome you to PBK 112 at any point before, during, and/or after the show.
This production of The Skriker contains the following production elements that may affect some audience members: Flashing Lights, Blood, Loud Noises. Additionally, this performance explores intense themes and subject matter. Audience discretion is advised.
Dedication
Anya Ruzicka (Director) is honored to have been the final recipient of the Linda Lavin Research Award during Lavin's lifetime. Her generosity and unwavering support for the arts have left an indelible mark on countless students and creators. This production of The Skriker is dedicated to her memory, with heartfelt gratitude for her inspiring legacy and lasting impact.
