Timeless inquiries posed in Thornton Wilder's 'Our Town' echo within us all, according to Constance Alexander
In the heart of a small New England town, a timeless play is set to captivate audiences once again. "Our Town," a production by Thornton Wilder, is making a comeback at Murray's Playhouse, and for a local couple, Terry and Judi Little, it holds a significant value.
Terry Little, a hospice patient who recently passed away on July 26, remarked that "Our Town" came into their lives at an opportune time. His comment may have been referring to the final act of the play, set in the Grover's Corners cemetery, a poignant reminder of life's transience and the importance of cherishing everyday moments.
First staged in 1938, "Our Town" has become an allegorical representation of life in a small town, portraying the hopes, dreams, defeats, and successes shared by all people. Its universal themes make it a meaningful choice for communities seeking connection and deeper understanding during difficult or transformative periods.
The play's minimalistic staging and focus on ordinary events emphasize appreciating the small moments that define human experience, fostering reflection on love, community ties, mortality, and the beauty of life itself. In the Louisville production, all actors had to sit on stage for the entire play, even when they had no lines, adding to the intimacy and shared experience of the performance.
Catie Bates Robinson, who played the role of Rebecca in the 1988 production at Murray's Playhouse, still remembers her speech at the end of Act I. Her character marveled at the delivery of a letter with a detailed address, including the United States of America, the Earth, the Solar System, the Universe, and the Mind of God. This moment, and many others like it, serve as a reminder of the play's ability to inspire awe and reflection.
Liz Bussey Fentress, former executive director of Murray's Playhouse, stated that they chose an "old favorite" to attract more season ticket buyers. The production in 1988 was used to kick off the new season, and a tradition started among some of the cast, where they would gather for a potluck meal and a reading of "Our Town" on Sundays, which they called "Our Town" Church.
Today, Terry and Judi Little, who are known for their community spirit, unceasing creativity, and vibrant volunteerism, are sponsors for the Murray production of "Our Town." The play, which won a Pulitzer Prize and is currently attracting audiences worldwide, promises to be a moving and thought-provoking experience for all who attend.
If you're in the area, don't miss your chance to experience "Our Town" at Murray's Playhouse. Ticket information and exact showtimes for the performances are available online. Join the community in celebrating this timeless work and the beauty of everyday life.
The Little family, who are known for their community spirit, unceasing creativity, and vibrant volunteerism, are sponsors for the Murray production of "Our Town." This arts event, which promises to be a moving and thought-provoking experience for all who attend, aligns perfectly with their passion for books and entertainment.
Catie Bates Robinson, a former actress at Murray's Playhouse, remembers her role in "Our Town" as a reminder of the play's ability to inspire awe and reflection, particularly a speech in Act I where her character considered the complexity and beauty of life itself, even in simple everyday moments.
