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The Penobscot Theatre Company continues its 2010-2011 season as it presents a dramatized version of Pulitzer Prize winning novel “To Kill A Mockingbird” written by Harper Lee and originally published in 1960.
The play, directed by Producing Artistic Director Scott R.C. Levy, was adapted for the stage in 1990 and opened at the Bangor Opera House on March 30.
Set in Alabama during three years of the great depression, “To Kill A Mockingbird” follows the memories of young narrator, Jean Louise “Scout” Finch. Scout reflects on growing up with her father, Atticus, brother, Jem and friend Dill experiencing racial controversies and consequences among other important life lessons.
“Over the last few years, I’ve been producing pieces that explore racial issues,” Levy said, referencing last year’s production of “Spunk,” a series of vignettes by Harlem Renaissance writer Zora Neale Hurston. “I’ve been very interested in producing theatre that could be considered an American masterpiece. I think [“To Kill A Mockingbird”] is an American masterpiece.”
“This play is not only multi-racial, but also multi-generational,” Levy said.
He said each character’s role in the 19-member cast is equally important, despite a broad range in age. He said the generation gap gives younger actors an opportunity to interact with experienced adults, helping them learn the ins and outs of the theater world.
The show calls for three children’s roles, which are shared among five young actors. Nick Danby, 13, performs as Jem Finch, Scout’s older brother, while Ali Cottrell, 10, and Brooke Jones, 9, take turns playing Scout. Nathan Manaker, 10, and Noam Osher share the part of Scout’s best friend, Dill.
Penobscot Theatre brought in talent from New York and Washington, D.C., to play the parts of Atticus, Calpurnia and Tom Robinson, but local actors make their mark as well. Alice Philbrick, a sophomore at the University of Maine, appears in the show along with Marcia Douglas of the UMaine theater department.
Levy said both those who know the story and others who have yet to enjoy it would appreciate the play.
“I hope people who are familiar with the book have an opportunity to see these wonderful characters and wonderful story live in color,” he said. The 1962 film is in black and white. “I hope to introduce a new generation of audience to the power of theater and the power of adaptation.”
Tickets for “To Kill A Mockingbird” are available at the box office by calling 942-3333, or online at penobscottheatre.org. The show runs through April 17.
In honor of the 50th anniversary of “To Kill A Mockingbird,” and coinciding with Penobscot Theatre’s production, UMaine will host special guest Mary Murphy as she screens her documentary, “Hey, Boo: Harper Lee and ‘To Kill a Mockingbird.’” Murphy, a producer at CBS news for 20 years and winner of six Emmy Awards, presents her film as a part of the university’s Cultural Affairs / Distinguished Lecture Series.
Sponsored by the UMaine Humanities Initiative, the screening, followed by a discussion, is scheduled for Tuesday, April 12 at 12:30 p.m. in Room 100 of Nutting Hall.
