Quote of the Day: I will be your shade tree. lyrics from Hundred Days, “Vows,” on stage at Elision Playhouse in Crystal, MN, through March 22, 2025.

Hundred Days is based on the true story of composer and lyricists Abigail and Shaun Bengson, with book by Sarah Bancher. When Abigail was 15, her family experienced insurmountable tragedy, suffering loss of family members, which scarred the young woman. When she meets Shaun, her trauma manifests itself in premonitions, and a recurring dream that he will die an early death, in 100 days. The pair are immediately drawn to each other and agree that they will make the most of those 100 days, come what may. 

Christine Wade, Artistic and Vocal Director of Theatre Elision, plays Abigail. Ryan Lee plays Shaun. The show is presented in a concert style with the couple sharing their stories and singing the songs composed by the Bengsons. They are accompanied by other musicians: Emily Hensley on accordion, Benjamin Emory Larson on keys, Joni Griffith on violin, Rae Wasson on cello, Miles Whealy is the percussionist, and Harrison Wade is Music Director on and bass guitar. Most of this folk-rock concert is sung by Christine and Shaun, with Shaun also playing acoustic guitar, and other band members singing back up, or coming center for certain songs. 

Christine Wade and Ryan Lee as Abigail and Shaun Bengson in Hundred Days at Theatre Elision, thru 9/22/25. Photo: Jolie Morehouse Olson

I loved the mood of this piece. It’s about life and love, the messiness of relationships, and the deep emotions that we all feel, but are often too afraid to show. While Abigail and Shaun are immediately drawn to each other and quickly enter into a relationship, they don’t reveal all their hopes and fears right away. They need time to feel safe with each other. The course of their bond accelerates after a car accident that manifests Abigail’s worst fears. She finally confesses her nightmare and its premonition. The true miracle of their connection happens next when Shaun listens to her and says, “Okay, what if that’s true, and we only have 100 days? Let’s make the most of it.” And, they do. They live each day for the precious moments that they have. They never take their time together for granted. It’s truly remarkable.

Christine Wade and Ryan Lee as Abigail and Shaun Bengson in Hundred Days at Theatre Elision, thru 9/22/25. Photo: Jolie Morehouse Olson

Theatre Elision always finds a way to let these hidden gems shine on their stage. I’m always drawn into their gorgeous musicianship and creative staging. Lindsay Fitzgerald is the director and set designer for this show. Stage manager and lighting is Laina Grendle. Andrea Johnson did the sound design, and Brigit Van Gemeren is the Production Associate. I highly recommend going out to Crystal for anything that Theatre Elision produces. Next up is their popular production of Penelope, which they did last summer. Then, their annual presentation of Ghost Quartet, done as a reunion of previous cast members from the past several years, but presenting in August this year. And, the big announcement is that they will be the first Twin Cities theater to produce Dave Malloy’s Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812, October 30 – November 22, 2025. I can’t wait! 

You can see Hundred Days at Elision Playhouse through March 22, 2025. Go to Theatre Elision website for tickets and showtimes. Very affordable, quality entertainment!

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What would you do if you only had 100 days left to live?