The Play's the Thing...To Actors, Anyway

I would like to share a letter to the editor from one of my local acting "heroes" (maybe I'll do a blog about all of my heroes at one point or another):

Great performances in ‘Elephant Man’
I am writing to concur with Nick Rogers’ review of “The Elephant Man” presented at Theatre in the Park at Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site. Nick is not one to be impressed easily, nor am I. His review indicates he was extremely impressed and he didn’t even get to see the complete show. Well, I had the good fortune of seeing the entire show Saturday night, and I was moved and impressed beyond words. Matt Husky’s portrayal of John Merrick is absolutely stunning. Every movement, every moment is painfully but beautifully executed. Merrick’s intelligence and humanity are never overshadowed by his disfigurements. As Nick aptly stated, “It’s a compelling, dedicated performance that’s riveting in body and voice.” His performance is complimented by the fine acting of the rest of the cast. Bruce Davidson does indeed explode dramatically as Dr. Frederick Treves. It is a sensitive, powerful, heart wrenching display of conscience. Deborah Kerley’s very natural performance of Mrs. Kendal is equally fine. What is noteworthy is that this is her theater debut.

My heartfelt thanks to Valeria Parga and her entire cast and crew for an unforgettable theater experience. My second reason for writing is to encourage everyone who considers themselves a patron of the theater to see this show. I am greatly saddened when I attend dramatic performances and see half the seats empty. When shows like this and “The Gin Game,” performed a few weeks ago, draw crowds of fewer than 100, and yet any musical in town will attract hundreds, something is amiss.

I do not wish to detract from the fine performances offered in musicals, nor get into the debate about what is “real” theater, but if we are to continue to have a stimulating array of shows to choose from, we must support these shows by our attendance.
Martha Plog Springfield

“The Elephant Man” will be presented at 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday at Theatre in the Park at Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site. Free pre-show entertainment begins at 7 p.m. each night."

I must concur with Ms. Plog's evaluation of Musicals vs. "Straight" Plays.

I began as an actress. I couldn't sing to save my life. So, I really consider myself an Actress/Singer...and Ms. Plog, may I commend you on speaking the truth.

It isn't just Springfield...every town where I've done community theater...if you want everyone in town to see you...do a musical. If you're doing it for "arts' sake"...do a straight play.

Wish it wasn't like that...but it's what the audiences love...