The Birds
by Conor McPherson
From a story by Daphne Du Maurier
Directed by Robert Ashton
Albion Theatre
October 16, 2026
Jeff Kargus, Susan Wylie, Livy Potthoff
Photo by John Lamb
Albion Theatre
If you see the title The Birds and think “Alfred Hitchcock”, Albion Theatre’s latest production might change your perspective. The famous Hitchcock film was apparently only very loosely based on its source, a short story by Daphne Du Maurier, but the play by Conor McPherson, currently being staged by Albion as directed by Robert Ashton, hews a little closer the the original story while making a few notable changes, most obviously to the setting, in New England, USA vs. Original England. The story focuses mostly on character interactions and the way a widespread calamity can affect behavior and bring out aspects of human nature than aren’t necessarily expected. This production is also an ideal showcase for some truly stunning technical effects and a first-rate local cast.
The story opens as a series of bird attacks has been going on all over the country, and various people have been trying to find places to hide from the vicious creatures who seem to be triggered by the tides. When the show begins, we meet Diane (Susan Wylie) and Nat (Jeff Kargus), who have only recently met and have holed up in an apparently uninhabited house near a lake. Diane, a writer, records events in her diary as the two try to figure out how to survive amid the intermittent attacks–trying to stockpile food and supplies. Diane keeps track of the radio, which doesn’t seem to be broadcasting anymore, and both express curiosity about other survivors, noting that one neighbor across the lake appears to have survived. Soon, they are joined by the younger, somewhat mysterious Julia (Livy Potthoff), and they initially get along, continuing the search for supplies and food, and building an almost family-like relationship, until the suspicions begin to grow, aided by their neighbor, Tierney (Joseph Garner), when he suddenly shows up at the house while Nat and Julia are away, planting seeds of doubt into Diane’s mind. We see the characters’ hopes, suspicions, and especially fears as the story goes on, seeing what lengths an immediate and ongoing threat can drive people to, as well as the persistent urge to survive amid the worst of trials.
It’s a well-structured, fast-moving show, running about 90 minutes with no intermission, as a series of scenes play out punctuated by blackouts and well-realized bird attacks achieved by means of Justin Been’s marvelous sound and projection design, along with Kara Grimm-Denholm’s terrific lighting design. The set by Rob Lippert is detailed and effective, providing an ideal backdrop for the action and effects, and there’s also excellent work from costume designer Tracy Newcomb and props designer Kathleen Dwyer.
The interplay and ensemble chemistry between the characters is splendidly achieved, with remarkable performances by all, led by Wylie in a strong turn as Diane, who carefully records her thoughts throughout the show. Wylie is great at being both relatable and evasive, as well as increasingly changed by the ongoing conflict and suspicions sowed by others. Kargus is also excellent as Nat, who finds himself caught between a growing conflict between Diane and Potthoff’s impressively mysterious Julia. Garner also makes the most of his one scene, giving Tierney a sense of urgency that holds attention well. All four of these performers give their all, working well to carry across the suspense, mystery, and growing sense of doom as the story plays out.
The Birds is an intense, thought-provoking psychological drama. The visual effects are particularly stunning, as well, along with the sound and set, bringing the audience into an apocalyptic world that’s entirely believable and increasingly disturbing. It’s another triumph of acting and storytelling from Albion Theatre.
Susan Wylie, Joseph Garner
Photo by John Lamb
Albion Theatre
Albion Theatre is presenting The Birds at the Kranzberg Arts Center until November 1, 2026