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Our Town shares
a poignant
message
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I
n early December, high school students presented Our Town,
a riveting, three-act play that shined the light on the circle
of life by sharing the story of the residents of a small town,
young love, marriage and mortality.
The play opened in the community of Grover’s Corners and
was narrated by a stage manager (Camryn Kwiatkoski), who fed
the storyline as she introduced characters as they appeared in
their role on stage. Act I opened to reveal a budding relationship
between neighbors George Gibbs and Emily Webb (Kyle Auth
and Jaimee Cabili), and in Act II, the couple weds in a charming
ceremony before family, friends and neighbors. Life is simple and
happy as the couple builds a future together and George takes
over his uncle’s farm.
In Act III, the curtain rises to reveal a sobering scene, nine years
later, in a cemetery outside of town. A funeral is being held, that of
Emily Gibbs. The young wife died giving birth to her and George’s
second child. Emotions run high as George and family members
struggle with her loss, and as Emily struggles with her own death.
Once the funeral ends, Emily receives a rare chance to return
to her family to relive a single day. Unable to interact with loved
ones, she can only watch with heartache while realizing her family
seldom took time to enjoy the simple joys of life. Saddened, Emily
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returns to her grave wishing she and others would have treasured
life, even the smallest moments. The stage manager conveys her
concern, closing the show with the poignant question — does
anyone truly understand the value of life while they live it?
The gifted cast of Our Town and producer Tonilyn Jackson will
be recognized by the 2020 Drama Awards sponsored by Prime
Stage Theater. In its inaugural year, the program will acknowledge
the dramatic arts performances of Carlynton, and the school
districts of Avonworth, North Allegheny, Pine Richland and
Shadyside Academy at a ceremony to be held March 28 at the New
Hazlett Theater.