To the editor:
It was 1952. Our church youth group was looking for a play to produce to raise funds for a summer camp. We chose “Our Town” by Thornton Wilder, primarily because it did not have to have a lot of scenery. I was captivated by the play then and have seen it several times since.
When I learned that Heartwood was going to produce the play, I mentioned it to Louise, who responded, “Sure, we should go.” It was a lukewarm response probably based on a high school assignment to read and write a report on the play. She had also seen it several times before.
As we drove home after the opening-night performance, she said, “Thanks for making me go to the play.”
Griff Braley’s cast brought the play to life. It was first produced in 1938 but it is relevant today. It is a call to celebrate life with all of its rough edges and tragedies. It presents us with the mysteries of our existence and calls us to fully live life, not with a device in our hands but with eyes open to the people around us, even people we may not like or understand.
As Emily says goodbye to the world she has known and loved, we are led to say “hello.” The world has not changed but we have. The cast walking around and talking with the audience before the play and during the intermission made us feel as if it was “Our Town.” If it’s at all possible, don’t miss it.
