Running Time: 2 hours plus two 10 minute intermission
Accessible Seating: Available
Hearing Devices: Not Available
Sensory Friendly Performance: Not Available
Production Sound Level: Comfortable Sound Level
Noises or Visuals to Prepare for: None
Reviewed by Glynda Welch
Our Town is one of those plays that hits differently at different times of our lives. This production is my third experience in Grover’s Corners, New Hampshire. As a senior in high school participating in the production, Wilder’s universal themes barely spoke to me. Two decades later I understood and really fell in love with Our Town. The CORE Theatre welcomed me into a heart-warming visit with an old friend.
Groundbreaking at the time of its first production in 1938, Our Town was the first to break many long- held theatrical rules including breaking the fourth wall. The lead character is the Stage Manager (Autumn McNamara) who serves as narrator and guides us through changes between scenes. McNamara’s Stage Manager interacts directly with the audience, keeping them on track as deftly as she does the actors on stage. Much of the action centers on the relationship between Emily Webb (Carly Rogers) and George Gibbs (Trevor Powell) and their respective families. Doc Gibbs (James Hansen Prince) and Mrs. Gibbs (Kim Sheffield Hill), along with young Rebecca (Isabella Good,) round out the Gibbs family. Jeff McIntosh and Andra Laine Hunter play Mr. and Mrs. Webb, with E.K. Cook as Emily’s younger brother, Wally. Featured townspeople include Mrs. Soames (Joan Eppes,) Simon Stimpson (Zeke Fayble,) Constable Warren (Cheryl Hadley,) Howie Newsome (Jeremy Mitchell,) and Farmer McCarthy (Sally Soldo.)
The incredibly talented Jim Finger is the scenic artist, giving us a backdrop of sky and stars that spill out across the stage floor and almost into the audience, enveloping the suggested set pieces and pantomiming actors. Light and Sound Design is by Kenneth Hall, who also served as board operator. Part of The CORE Theatre’s mission statement is to “entertain, educate, and elevate society by instilling hope and understanding.” Our Town is a perfect vehicle for fulfilling that mission. Anyone who has never seen this play should absolutely get tickets and go meet this American classic. Those who have seen it should take the opportunity to discover new truths and deeper understanding. Tickets are available through thecoretheatre.org or by calling 214-930-5338. Performances continue through May 19th , Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 3 pm.
Experience Live Theater!
Glynda Welch
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