They’re back!

After a pandemic hiatus, WOMENSWORKRI Theatre Collaborative is back, this time on Pawtucket’s Burbage Theatre stage, where five actresses over the age of 40 give excellent performances in April DeAngelis’ “Playhouse Creatures”.

The historical play takes place in 1669 in London’s Kings Company Playhouse, a former bear pit.

Based on real life actresses of the time, the play humorously and poignantly portrays emergence and lives of actresses as they fight for their rights and recognition.

We see them on stage speaking the words of Shakespeare and other playwrights of the era, taking male and female roles.

Paul Faber plays Mrs. Betterton, wife of the owner, who appears to be in charge, but is controlled by her husband who is often quoted but never seen.

Faber represents the aging actress who never gets that big role, works for low wages, and attempts to teach the others the proper rules of acting. A scene where she shows the newest cast member the proper positioning of her head is hysterical.

Lynne Collinson, WOMENSWORKRI producer, is marvelous as Doll, destined for bit parts and sweeping the floor, but wiser them all the others.

Rae Mancini and Autumn Jefferson play two actresses who speak familiar lines, at times acting a bit over the top

Enter Nell Gwyn (Lorraine Guerra), a 16-year-old who makes her living selling oranges but wants to be an actress. Jealousy gets in the way of performances, as Nell becomes a star.

Collaborative member MJ Daly gets the play moving and the players in sync, moving smoothly from stage to dressing room.

Collinson has found the perfect play for her ensemble, proving that there is a place on stage for women over forty. Now we need playwrights who can match their talents with good, meaningful, and provocative plays.

“Playhouse Creatures “ is at Burbage Playhouse, 59 Blackstone Ave., Pawtucket through February 25. For tickents, call 484-0355 or visit burbagetheatre.org.