The fine acting of Annie Reed, as Emily, and Leroy Ruth, as the Stage Manager, highlighted the T.C. Players’ Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 performances of “Our Town.”
Directed by the capable Mrs. Mildred Parsons, the cast pantomimed their roles very convincingly on a stage set with a minimum of scenery to represent author Thornton Wilder’s setting of Grover’s Corner, New Hampshire, at the turn of the century.
Speech instructor Mr. Rolfe Wylie stepped in two weeks prior to the opening night to fill expertly the role of Howie Newsome, the town’s milkman. And Jerry Brooks quickly learned the part of Emily’s father, editor Webb.
Authentic costumes circa 1910 and delicate lighting added warmth and realism to the bare stage. The church choir, located in the orchestra pit, was close enough to unify the setting. And the cast’s depiction of everyday events in life, that go unnoticed and unappreciated in this lifetime, was poignant enough to bring tears to several eyes and a lump in the throats of the viewers.
Some 500 persons attended the two performances.