The Voice of the Prairie is set at the turn of the century (1890 to 1920) and tells the story of Davey and Frankie, a blind girl, and their journey as they meet, lose touch and rediscover each other through the power of radio.
“It’s all about the importance of storytelling,” said actor Jonathan McBride. “It’s a beautiful script.”
The story deals with the question of technology and how it can affect people. It also deals with the relationships of people and how they become different as people grow.
“We are all changed by our circumstances, it’s up to us to decide what we do with that change,” said The Grand Theatre’s community outreach coordinator Kate Rufener.
Rufener was surprised at how quickly she got attached to characters that didn’t necessarily have characteristics she admired.
McBride, David Hanson and Stephanie Purcell play multiple roles on the stage. John Caywood is the director for this production.
“It’s a beautiful story. It’s not trying to fix anything. It’s a beautiful escape from real life.”
“It’s extremely fun and extremely challenging from an actor’s point of view,” said McBride. The play is a lasting theater piece that will stick with audience members.
“I was able to get my hands on the script,” said McBride, “I instantly fell in love with John Olive’s words.”
Rufener said that theater can be a good way for students to learn about what they are studying.
“It’s a good reference for understanding the historical time period,” said Rufener.
According to McBride, students should come to see the production.
“There’s always the thrill of going into a live performance not knowing what to expect,” said McBride. The actors try to give the same performance every time, but there will always be something different and special in each live performance.
Performances will start at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday with evening performances also scheduled on Jan. 23 and Jan. 30. Matinee performances are scheduled for Jan. 26 and Feb. 2 at 2 p.m. On Jan. 24, Eileen Hallet Stone will give a talk about “the influence of technology on community connection and progress.” The lecture is free and starts at 6 p.m.
“It’s a beautiful story. It’s not trying to fix anything,” said McBride. “It’s a beautiful escape from real life.”
