2-06-2024 9:09pm

Mars Hill Academy Players present Thornton Wilder's "Our Town"

Beth Callahan Editor

Shown are (from left) Zeke Crocker of Maineville, Ellery Powers of Maineville, Lydia Cunningham of Liberty Twp., Marko Mavridis of Lebanon, Kaiya Knodel of Springboro, and Camdon Hutchinson of Cincinnati.

Story and photo submitted by Mars Hill Academy

MASON, OH -- Milk is delivered, breakfast is on the stove, and the town of Grover’s Corners, New Hampshire is alive. These everyday moments that shape the human experience will unfold on stage as the Mars Hill Academy players transport audiences to the turn of the last century in Thornton Wilder's timeless classic, "Our Town,” Feb. 29-March 2.

In scenes of daily life that capture the poetic beauty of the everyday, this Pulitzer Prize-winning American classic celebrates family, faith and the wonders that happen all around us, if we are just attuned to see them.

Audiences will meet the town gossips, the boys who play baseball, and the choirmaster with a secret sorrow. They'll witness the unfolding journey of teenagers George Gibbs (played by senior Andrew Leonard of Liberty Twp.) and Emily Webb (played by senior Lydia Cunningham of Liberty Twp.), as they navigate the realms of friendship, love, marriage, and beyond. The drama culminates in Emily’s third act revelation that humans fail to “realize life while they live it…every, every minute.”

Directed by the Headmaster Mike McKenna, the cast brings a fresh and heartfelt perspective to the enduring themes of the play.

"This production is a nostalgic journey that invites audiences to immerse themselves in the simplicity and richness of life in Grover's Corners. 'Our Town' not only captures the essence of a bygone era but also explores the universal aspects of love, gratitude, and the human experience,” he explained.

McKenna said one unique aspect of directing Wilder’s classic is stripping the play of artifice with minimal scenery or props.

“The show contains fewer props and visuals, allowing the audience to focus on the characters and the strong emotions,” he said.

"Our Town" is a show for all ages. McKenna explained, "The themes of 'Our Town' are timeless and resonate with audiences of every generation. It invites us to reflect on the simple yet profound aspects of life that connect us all."

How to go:

Dates: February 29 to March 2, 7 p.m., Saturday matinee at 2 p.m.
Location: The Fitton Center for the Arts (101 S. Monument Avenue, Hamilton, OH 45011)
Tickets: Thursday tickets are $15 for Premium and $12 for General Admission. Friday and Saturday tickets are $18 for Premium and $15 for General Admission.
More information or to purchase tickets: visit www.marshill.edu/drama