Annapolis, Maryland, may be steeped in Colonial and Revolutionary War history, but the Colonial Players of Annapolis are currently taking audiences on a different sort of historical journey, to medieval Italy with Chiara Atik’s 2023 comedic drama, Poor Clare. Set in 1211 in the hilltop town of Assisi, Italy, this play reimagines the early life of Saint Clare of Assisi and her relationship with Saint Francis of Assisi. The plot follows a fictionalized version of young Clare, a well-to-do noblewoman preoccupied with status, fashion, and social life. When she hears of a charismatically bold young man named Francis protesting materialism in the town square, she becomes intrigued. This curiosity draws Clare into a world that upends her understanding of wealth, purpose, and identity. As her perspective shifts, Clare is forced to confront difficult choices and consider what she is willing to sacrifice in the name of her lifestyle. The story explores themes of empathy, class, and conviction, blending present-day slang and pop culture references with a medieval-inspired setting.
Chiara Atik’s clever juxtaposition of current language with a medieval setting proves highly effective, making the historically infused story resonant and accessible to today’s audiences. This stylistic choice enhances the play’s exploration of inequality and persuasion, emphasizing the continued relevance of these themes. The characters’ slang-inflected dialogue strips away period formality, allowing the story to feel immediately understood. Most importantly, giving Clare a distinctly current voice reframes her not as a distant historical figure, but as a relatable young woman whose concerns mirror those of the present day. Jennifer Cooper’s well-balanced direction supports this approach, keeping the modern-medieval blend cohesive while smoothly balancing humor and sincerity.
Kendyl Durham is brilliant in the title role, bringing an effervescent energy and youthful innocence to Clare. This lively presence makes her later transition to a more worldly mindset especially compelling, and her precise delivery conveys keen awareness of status and class. As Clare’s loudmouthed sister, Beatrice, Abby Wilson is delightfully entertaining, highlighting the character’s bubbly and brash nature through expressive physical comedy. In their argument scenes, Wilson and Durham demonstrate excellent comedic rhythm. The contrast of Durham’s demure disposition alongside Wilson’s boisterousness heightens these moments, emphasizing the sisters’ vastly different personalities.
James Levine plays Francis with a know-it-all swagger, humorously mocking Clare’s confusion about the poor. He directly connects with the audience by passing out flyers to them during the protest scenes, confidently interacting with the crowd and reinforcing Francis’ persuasive energy. Kim Moore Bessler, as Ortolana (Clare and Beatrice’s mother), delivers her lines with commanding authority, underscoring the character’s strong values and maternal presence. Clare’s maids are engagingly portrayed by Joann Barber (Alma) and Lory Cosner (Peppa). This duo’s witty banter and commentary offer a relatable and practical counterpoint to Clare’s obsession with class.
Costume designer Christina R. McAlpine crafted ornate medieval outfits and headpieces, complete with vibrant jewel tones and shimmering gold accents. She presents the poor in simpler, worn fabrics, creating a clear distinction between social classes. Carrie Shade’s prop design incorporates period visuals, including embroidered medieval tapestries and intricate bird cages. Lighting designer Wes Bedsworth uses darker lighting for scenes involving the poor, and brighter illumination for the scenes depicting the wealthy. This distinction seamlessly transports the audience between the two worlds, defining the environment of each moment.
Poor Clare at the Colonial Players of Annapolis is an innovative retelling of a centuries-old story that cleverly merges the historic with the modern. The production succeeds in grounding its historical subject matter through a contemporary lens, making it accessible and thematically resonant. This results in an energetic introduction to the story of Saint Clare of Assisi and Saint Francis of Assisi, balancing humor with social and moral undertones. Thoughtfully staged, the play offers an engaging theatrical experience that brings a fresh perspective on historical figures to the Annapolis theater scene.
Running Time: Approximately two hours and 15 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission.
Poor Clare plays through May 16, 2026, at The Colonial Players of Annapolis, 108 East Street, Annapolis, MD. Performances are Thursdays-Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets ($28) can be purchased online, in person at the Colonial Players box office, or by calling the Box Office at 410-268-7373.
Note: Explores themes of religion, poverty, and privilege with some emotional and moral intensity. Contains strong language.
Poor Clare
Written by Chiara Atik
Directed by Jennifer Cooper
Costume Design by Christina R. McAlpine
Props Design by Carrie Shade
Lighting Design by Wes Bedsworth
