The Miracle Worker – May 2011
MAY 2011: North Conway, NH: Miracles do happen. While not always evident to us in our everyday life, every once in a while things just come together in a way that makes you believe that they must exist. Such is the case with Arts In Motion Theater Company’s current production of The Miracle Worker. The show opens tonight at 7:00 pm at the Eastern Slope Inn Playhouse.
Based on the true story of Annie Sullivan and Helen Keller, it has served as an inspiration for generations of readers and audiences around the world. The events depicted in this play were only the beginning of a lifelong friendship between these two remarkable women. From silent child, to world-renowned spokesperson for the blind and deaf-blind, Helen Keller left an indelible mark in history. Quietly, but just as significantly, Annie left her mark as the consummate teacher.
Director Barbara Spofford and her cast have created a wonderful family of characters on stage. The bond that has formed in the rehearsal space translates to a distinct camaraderie and a feeling of family that permeates the theater. “It is such a gift to watch the characters emerge as rehearsals progress. The bond that is formed between these characters, especially Annie and Helen, is magic”, said Spofford. “The miracle is not only in the story, but how it touches each one of us in a way that opens our hearts to each other.”
Annie Sullivan is played by Conway native Julie Lanoie who brings her own story to this show. “Nineteen years ago, I had the opportunity to play the part of Helen, also under the direction of Barbara Spofford. I am grateful for that experience and the impact it had on my life. As I stand now in Teacher’s shoes, I see how the lessons in this story have continued to influence some of the most important choices I have made in my personal and professional life, including the decisions that led me to return to the valley recently, and even to audition for this role”, said Lanoie.
The cast also includes Meghan Perrin as Helen, Julianne Brosnan as Kate and Craig Holden at Captain Keller, with Keith Force, River Hayes, Chance Bousquet, Pam MacDonald, Kodi Barrows, Tom Ferent, Colleen Bousquet, Hannah Dutton, Fiona Brosnan, Maggie Illsley, Renee Hailey, Gillian Brosnan, Naomi Lubkin and Paige Illsley rounding out the cast. The set is designed by Deborah Jasien, who also designed the set for last year’s production of Steel Magnolias.
It is interesting to note that Helen Keller had a local connection through her close friend Nella Braddy Henney. Henney was an editor at Doubleday and Co., publisher of Helen Keller’s first book. She was assigned to work with Keller on updating her story. Their working relationship grew into a friendship that lasted 40 years and brought Keller to Foss Mountain in Snowville on many occasions to visit the Henney home.
Arts In Motion Theater Company is a non-profit, open-minded theater education and production company exploring the realm of creative arts. Dedicated to individuals desiring to enrich their own lives, Arts In Motion’s endeavor is to create such experiences, challenging and rewarding adventures guided by professional facilitators who enhance the theater experience. For more information please visit us online at www.artsinmotiontheater.com
The show from Arts In Motion Theater Company will be presented at the Eastern Slope Inn Playhouse Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 7:00 pm, May 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 and 28, 2011 as well as on Sunday at 2:00 pm, May 22 and 29, 2011. Tickets are $15 Adults and $12 for Students and Seniors. Tickets may be reserved by calling the box office at 603-356-5776, and purchased online or at the door.
