CHICAGO -- Opening Apr. 16 at Stage Left Theatre, Mary Booker's revival intends to restore a distant theatrical gem to a modern audience.

The title alone should provoke comment: The Wonder: A Woman Keeps A Secret, written by playwright Susanna Centlivre and first produced in 1714, centers on a lady in 18th century Lisbon who is charged with keeping her friend's secret -- despite mistaken identities, confused suitors, sword fights and a mounting need for cash and passion.

Starring are Marguerite Hammersley, Jennifer Bradley, Jack Tippett, Karen Weinberg and Michelle Williams. Designing the show are Tina Howard (costumes), Robert G. Smith (set/lighting) and Jack Short (original music).

By the treacherous end of her tricky play, Centlivre has, it seems, tested the limits of love and trust. The Wonder runs through May 24. For information call (773) 883-8830.

-- By Lawrence Bommer
Chicago Correspondent