THE THEATER MIRROR, New England's LIVE Theater Guide

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The Lyric West's "W;t" is must-see theater: witty, wise, moving and intelligent. Margaret Edson's remarkable play, about poetry, death and triumph, is elegantly written --- I learn more each time I see it --- and exquisitely acted by the luminous Paula Plum in the role of Dr. Vivian Bearing. The Uncompromising professor of 17th century metaphysical poetry is now a patient with stage four cancer, bringing all her knowledge and grit to bear on the enemy.

Director Adam Zahler's thoughtful production features several noteworthy performances: James Butterfield as the attending physician, whose primary focus is his research; Bill Mootos as the doctor who took classes with this formidable professor in college, and Kerrie Kitto as the nurse whose kindness counts more than any salve. And June Murphy-Katz as the professor's professor gets the play's most p[oignant moment, comforting her at the end.

This is what theater should be: funny, compelling and transcendant. Put "W;t" on your list.