Director Karen Thornton on Cry It Out by Molly Smith Metzler
Cry It Out
Chester Theatre Group
Chester, NJ
By Molly Smith Metzler
September 2024
A comedy with dark edges, Cry It Out takes an honest look at the absurdities of being home with a baby, the power of female friendship, the dilemma of going back to work, and the effect class has on parenthood in America.
“Karen Thornton’s very steady directorial hand is evident in the taut pacing and beautiful performances she elicits from her actors. This, her second time directing a Summit Playhouse production (the first was a stellar Diary of Anne Frank) marks her as a person exceptionally good at what she does! Her Director’s Notes are a lesson in dramaturgy!”
“The Summit Playhouse’s production of Agnes of God is testimony to the extraordinary talent found in local nonprofessional theaters. To my mind, this production rates right up there with Broadway and should not be missed.”
— NJArtsMaven
Agnes of God
The Summit Playhouse
Summit, NJ
By John Pielmeier
Directed by Karen Thornton
February-March 2024
Summoned to a convent, Dr. Martha Livingstone, a court-appointed psychiatrist, must assess the sanity of a novice accused of murdering her newborn. The Mother Superior determinedly keeps young Agnes from the doctor, further arousing Livingstone’s suspicions. Who killed the infant, and who fathered the tiny victim? Livingstone’s questions force all three women to re-examine the meaning of faith and the power of love, leading to a dramatic, compelling climax.
“...a show that shouldn't be missed."
"The Summit Playhouse is truly a gem of a theatre in the community. Individuals, families and young people will all be captivated by their production of The Diary of Anne Frank. We commend them for staging the show.” — Broadway World
“'Diary of Anne Frank' Still Compelling As Ever”
“All of this came together under the astute direction of Karen Thornton, who captures the horror and humanity of an unforgettable time in world history.” — TapInto Union
The Diary of Anne Frank
The Summit Playhouse
Summit, NJ
By Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett
Adapted By Wendy Kesselman
Directed by Karen Thornton
February-March 2020
This enduring tale of hope captures the claustrophobic realities of eight people hiding from the Nazis in a concealed storage attic in war-torn Amsterdam. Anne’s daily existence – her fears, her hopes, her laughter, her grief and her family’s desperate attempt to preserve humanity in an inhumane world – drive this transcendently powerful true-life tale. This gripping new adaptation includes newly discovered writings from Anne’s diary.
Meet Millie, Jersey Voices
The Chatham Players
Chatham, NJ
By Amanda Sage Comerford
Directed by Karen Thornton
July-August 2019
Millie, eager yet unsure in her new job as a real estate agent, prepares for her first open house. However, when her parents show up to cheer her on, Millie’s day take a hilarious turn.