The California State University, Stanislaus (Stan State) theatre department opened their current production, “Vinegar Tom,” on Oct. 8. The show is set in the 17th century during the Salem Witchcraft Trials in England. “A play about witches with no witches” is placed on the poster, and has more meaning behind it than you think.

The play, written by Caryl Churchill, centers around a group of townspeople who each have very different problems, yet somehow intertwine with one another. The problems all revolve around the women in the story: a housewife, a single promiscuous mother, an older gal with a drinking problem and a healer. These women are all unique to the community and have a bond that connects them – they deal with oppression from a male counterpart of sorts.

“Vinegar Tom” consists of personal values, witchcraft and the narrow-mindedness that the male gender showed toward women. In the play, being different was seen as an act of witchcraft. The play is centered around the 17th century, and the songs that are performed pertain to occurring sexual and gender discrimination in present time.  

Churchill’s play, which was presented in 1976, was inspired by the second-wave of feminism. Her works have an occurring theme centered around feminism and gender politics, including Cloud Nine and Top Girls.

Jack and Packer, played by Stan State students Christian Fine and Lucas Gonzales, give a powerful performance playing the hateful male leads. Their characters showed the superiority that males had over all women, no matter who those women were.

Nandi Mathews (senior, Theatre) plays Ellen, a cunning woman who was accused of being a witch because of the healing works she provided. 

“Women were accused of being hysterical people in those times, and we put on this play to show how far we have come and where we still lag in our society,” Mathews said.

All of the female leads in “Vinegar Tom” represent issues that present-day women face, whether it be a housewife with an opinion, a sexually active woman or a woman who simply has no desire to get married or have children.

“I enjoyed the play very much,” Stan State alumni Danielle Lopstain said. “There was a deeper meaning behind the play rather than just witches.”

Before watching the production, keep in mind the phrase, “A play about witches without witches.” It will leave you with a different perception of the play. With its interesting characters, witty phrases, and a powerhouse for a singer of present times, it is well worth watching.  
Vinegar Tom will be playing Oct. 15-17 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 18 at 2 p.m in the Studio Theatre.