Courtesy of Rutland Youth Theatre
Rutland Youth Theatre actors prep for the upcoming production of “The Orphan Train” being performed in three shows at Rutland Intermediate School.
March 18-19 — RUTLAND —Rutland Youth Theatre presents its first “One Acts for Youngsters” series with the amazing tales of “The Orphan Train” on March 18 and 19 at Rutland Intermediate School.
Produced and directed by Saskia Hagen Groom, “The Orphan Train” takes us on a journey of the phenomena that transpired from 1910 to 1914 in the United States, where tens of thousands of children were emigrated from New York City to the Midwest. Some children did find better lives, while others were neglected and mistreated.
The play tells the story of nine orphans on an orphan train that left New York City on May 28, 1914. The train travels to Midwestern towns in search of homes, any homes, anywhere for the orphaned and unwanted children. There’s Mary, Evie, spunky Pegeen, Annie and Little Lucy, a quiet one. Other orphans include Frank, Raymond, Lucky and Danny the song-and-dance boy. And there are the men and women hoping for children. The lonesome whistle wails as the train chugs between encounters of anxiety, laughter, wistfulness, rejection and acceptance. Eight stories unfold, each a memorable surprise.
“The Orphan Train” is a charming heart-warmer and based on true stories dramatized by one of legendary playwrights for children, Aurand Harris. The staging creates a highly theatrical story, moving, amusing and always tellingly human.
Musical accompanist is Diane Chartrand. Choreographer is Tegan Waite. Stage manager is Barb Lassen.
Show times are March 18 at 7 p.m. and March 19 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Rutland Intermediate School. Tickets are $6 for children/seniors and $8 for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the Rutland Recreation Department or at the door.
Rutland Youth Theatre is part of the Rutland Recreation and Parks Department and is a non-for-profit organization. For more information on upcoming productions and workshops, visit www.rutlandrec.com/theatre or visit them on Facebook.
