BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) -A pair of local theatre enthusiast are looking to make a “Miracle” happen in their community. Samantha Ingram and Timothy Runion are endeavoring to bring the story of Helen Keller and her teacher Annie Sullivan to a local stage. The duo is co-producing the show. Runion is directing the play while Ingram will take on the role of Helen Keller.
“The Miracle Worker” written by William Gibson, is a three act play about the story of Helen Keller, the woman who lived her life blind and deaf. The play tells the inspiring story of Keller, born in a small Alabama town in 1880 and deprived of her sight and hearing as an infant – and her determined teacher, Annie Sullivan, who suffered a childhood of neglect – is retold with stark simplicity in this rendition.
Runion says, “This beautiful adaptation tells how Helen met her teacher and life companion Annie Sullivan.”
In addition to bringing the story of this heartfelt drama to the stage of the Raleigh Playhouse the pair want to highlight the centuries old struggle of individuals with disabilities. Per Ingram, “We want this show to be a staple in our community by dedicating this production to those with disabilities. One night of this show will be interpreted by a certified sign language interpreter.”
While researching the story of Helen Keller, the producers discovered a local tie-in to the story. In June of 1939 Miss Keller appeared for two days in Beckley speaking before the Lions Club’s annual state convention held at the Soldier’s and Sailor’s Memorial Building and Black Knight.
In order to produce a show of this quality the producers are seeking sponsors and Donors to defray the production costs.
“This show is a huge undertaking, and we need your help to make it happen.” Says Ingram, “We are currently using funds from our own pockets, so any donation is a huge help. We need money for sets, licensing, and a stipend to help actor volunteers to pay for their costumes. Since this is placed in the late 1800s it’s hard to go to the local retail store and purchase clothes off the rack.”
“As far as we know, this show has not been done in Southern West Virginia since 1968 when the Curtain Callers put on the show,” said Runion. The producers goal is to use “The Miracle Worker” to help bring art and disability awareness to Southern West Virginia.
A Gofundme has been set-up to raise funds for the productìon: https://gofund.me/21cccc23
Individual and business sponsorships are being offered at several different levels. For more information contact Samantha Ingram, 304-222-3920. The play will be presented May 3rd thru 5th at the Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre.
