The Pennsylvania Playhouse is presenting the classic play "The Miracle Worker", directed by Clair Freeman.
This award winning production starred Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke in both the movie and the play and has been must reading in schools for decades.
As Mr. Freeman states, Helen Keller has been an iconic figure not only for the advancement of those who are hearing and sight impaired but also was a part of the suffrage movement.
This story tells of the struggle Helen has to learn how to communicate with the outside world, a world for which she has no frame of reference. Communication, especially through language, is foreign to Helen.
Her teacher, Annie Sullivan, is the conduit for her learning. The struggle to understand and deal with societal norms is an onerous task for Annie in helping Helen.
An interesting part of the production is the use of sounds as presented from Helen's perspective.
Jenna McBreen plays Annie Sullivan. She is a recent graduate of Muhlenberg who has also performed in the Harrisburg area near where she grew up. Jenna has been in the production in a different role, so she was familiar with the story. Her mother has worked with the visually impaired which has helped her get a better understanding of the dynamics.
Hannah Kurczeski plays Helen Keller. She is a seventh grader in the Catasauqua School District and has performed in other community shows in that area.
Makenna Masenheimer plays Kate Keller. Makenna has been able to draw from her personal experience since she works with special needs children.
Other notable veteran performers in the production include Paul Bonnici, Vicki Montesano, and Nick Englesson. Rounding out the cast are Emily Garnto, Ethan Hartner, Brett Mathews, Teri Cleckley Young, Andy Alulis, Kiele Amelia Magalengo, Sophia Nibbe, and Mary Jo Rutkoski.
Brian McDermott is the Stage Manager.
"The Miracle Worker" opens on September 30 and includes performances on October 1, 7, 8, 9, 11, 14, 15, and 16. Tickets $25, $22 students and seniors, except Saturday.
Please call the box Office at 6108656665 or visit www.paplayhouse.org