Wow.
Thanks to Gary Mitchell for writing the first-weekend review, as it is my “GLUT policy” to try to see shows early enough that my emails may boost attendance. Now there are only three shows left, and I strongly encourage you to see one of them! (Unless it conflicts with your plans to see Nuncrackers, which is a good deal funnier and more heartwarming — well, this one is heartwarming, too — and heartbreaking at the same time. See both; one may be the antidote to the other…?)
Frankly, I was going to this show because I thought I “should” and was impressed by the importance of the subject matter, as expected — but was surprised by what a “real play” it is, turning real experiences into an entertaining script, delivered by the real people who had these experiences. It is about 75 minutes, with no intermission, and followed by a talkback.
The Telling Project distills MANY hours of interviews into a script by Max Rayneard that is entertaining and dramatic — with the added punch that it is all REAL. Real photos from the participants’ collections are projected onto the backdrop and their stories are well paced and interwoven. Lighting and sound effects enhance the experience… It is an amazing project and the Lansing version takes a proud place in the ongoing mission to share veterans’ stories. thetellingproject.org
Kudos to director Blake Bowen, lighting designer Joe Dickson, photography Trumpie Photography - and a “special thanks” to Lansing Media Project… maybe both share credit for the very well done projections? Dave Dunckel, one of the participants/actors, was also facilitator for the talkback and author of an insightful substitute for a “director’s note” in the program. He’s a real soldier and a real actor and a real asset to this production. All the other members of the ensemble were wonderfully brave and sincere sharing their stories: Theresa Bousson, Nan Casey, James Dunn, Jason and Tiffany Evans, Jodi Hancock, and Elaine Putvin.
8pm Fri/Sat; 2pm Sun
www.Peppermintcreek.org