I read Doctor Gisella Perl's I WAS A DOCTOR IN AUSCHWITZ and was craving more of her story. I stumbled upon MERE WATERS by Jillian Blevins, and I am far from disappointed. Radical, resilient, and masterful, this play paints an unflinching tale of the darkest corners of human history. HIGHLY RELEVANT in these times of overwhelmingly polluted waters of the United States government.

Blevins tackles the huge questions: birth, rebirth, salvation, faith, and redemption in this deeply moving and often harrowing play. It's done with unflinching honesty and she does not shy away from the darkness. She still finds moments of light which are poignant and richly layered. The ritual of the purification bath left me in tears. Mere Waters is set in the past but its themes resonate all too loudly today. I'd love to see a theatre stand up and be counted by producting this play.

I was able to see the Portland Stage workshop reading of this brilliant play. At the same time it's a dynamic and harrowing portrait of Gisella Perl, the play is also a clear-eyed presentation of the need to do what is right regardless of the risk or the cost to ourselves. The play's dark themes are beautifully balanced with brighter tones that deepen the play's connection to heritage, faith, and history even as they give us momentary relief from the darkness. Compelling and important work.