The drama program will open its 25th year with The Miracle Worker on November 3
By Tyler Delong
Staff Writer
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Cast members share a moment of levity during practice. Photo by Tyler Delong.
This fall will mark the 25th anniversary for the MVNU drama program.
The program performed The Miracle Worker as its inaugural play in the fall of 1986. It seems only fitting that it should be performed again in celebration of the program’s silver anniversary.
For those unfamiliar with the storyline, it can be best described as a portrayal of Anne Sullivan’s work with Helen Keller, a deaf and blind young girl whom she must teach how to communicate.
“The story focuses on the first few weeks where Helen begins to learn that things have names,” explained Dr. Daniel Behr, head of the drama program and the producer of this play. “It has an excellent script, is very inspirational and includes many Christian themes.”
The play will have plenty of talent this year, mixing new and old faces.
The spots available for Miarcle Worker were very limited, and there was almost too much talent who tried out.
Many seniors will be returning for the play, and there are several talented freshmen, according to Behr.
Some returning actors have won best performance from their previous roles.
“The things I look forward to the most are working with a new cast and creating the always enjoyable ‘acting family’ that all casts end up creating,” explained senior Michael Weaver, who will be playing Captain Arthur Keller, Helen’s strict and militaristic father.
“I am looking forward to being able to play a challenging role,” said freshman youth ministry major Alyssa Clary, who will be playing the role of Helen Keller. “It’s not often you can become a character whose role is almost entirely nonverbal. It’s a challenge to find new ways to communicate the thoughts and emotions you normally exhibit with your words.
“I am probably most fearful of the stage fighting, just because I have no experience with it,” Clary said. “However, I’m sure with the help of our director, Dan Turner, it will be absolutely wonderful. I am just so blessed to be a part of this cast and look forward to seeing the end result.”
The fall play will also be a lot of hard work for those who work behind the scenes, such as those who work on creating the set, handling the props, fashioning the costumes, doing the makeup, setting the lights and running the sound.
There is always room for new hands to help with the play, according to Behr.
To get involved, contact technical director Ben Wong at bwong@mail.mvnu.edu or assistant director Allison Hayes at ahayest@mail.mvnu.edu.
The Miracle Worker will open Thursday, Nov. 3 in Thorne Auditorium. Tickets will be sold for $6.
