By Laura Barfield, For the Mirror

“The Hatmaker’s Wife” by Lauren Yee illustrates the power of love… and the power of love’s absence.

This supernatural dramedy, told like a modern fable, explores the profound impact love can have and what happens when people don’t, or can’t, express it.

Hetchman, the hatmaker, seems to love his hat more than anything including his wife. All Hetchman’s wife wants is a little recognition and a hat of her own. Soon, a surreal voice is heard from within the walls of their home with words of advice. Later, a golem appears, memories are found, and Hetchman steps forward in time where he realizes the consequences of his actions.

On-point performances, along with clever music and scene changes make this show a delight. Notable performances include the clueless Hetchman played by Peter Cook; the exacerbated Hetchman’s wife played by Brynne Garman; and the couple’s loyal friend, Meckel played by Scott W. Pinkston.

Located in Federal Way, just minutes off I-5, Centerstage Theatre’s “The Hatmaker’s Wife” runs through Feb. 19. Tickets are available at Centerstagetheatre.com

Before the show or during intermission, stop in the lobby where concessions are sold and read the posters on the history of fables, golems, and their place in Jewish culture.

Laura Barfield has worked in early childhood education and has been published in multiple issues of Kids Imagination Train. She also has a theater background in both acting and directing. She lives in the Seattle area with her husband, two sons, and one labradoodle.