Welcome to LBHS Theatre’s Fall Production of Our Town, by renowned playwright Thornton Wilder. Many consider Our Town the greatest American play of all time. Since it first premiered on Broadway over 80 years ago, Our Town has been performed at least once every night somewhere in the U.S. and throughout the world. This classic piece of Americana tells the story of two small town families during the turn of the 20th century. The play defied most conventional theatrical genres and lives on as a contemplative work, exploring the human experience. Wilder intended for Our Town to be performed with minimal set, scenery, and props, which creates a humbling experience for actors and audiences alike.
As a graduate of the theatre department here at LBHS, the program holds a special place in my heart. During my junior year of high school, I was honored to play the role of Mrs. Julia Gibbs in Our Town. I have wonderful memories from that production and set out to provide a special experience for our current students as well. I have been, quite literally, in the same place they find themselves today, and the opportunities I received as an LBHS Theatre student helped guide me towards who I am today. As a director, I strive to teach from a place of understanding, providing experiences they will hold as dearly as I do mine.
I give huge thanks to Ms. Karol for trusting me with this special piece of literature, and I am extremely excited to share this beautiful and timeless play with our community. And, if that wasn’t exciting enough, I was provided with the unique opportunity to direct former TMS & LBHS teacher and director, Mr. Mark Dressler, in the role of the Stage Manager. As a devoted LBHS Theatre student, I spent my four years of high school involved with all of Mr. Dressler’s productions. Today, we share a unique relationship as he is my future father in-law and a wonderful friend. Thank you so much to everyone involved for your hard work and diligence throughout this process. I’m extremely grateful for all of your efforts on behalf of the production.
I will leave you with this. Our Town teaches us that our lives are full of fleeting moments which we tend to overlook: find meaning and beauty in all that surrounds you. A song my father used to sing to me when I was a little girl always brings me back to this theme. In Time In a Bottle, Jim Croce said, “there never seems to be enough time to do the things you want to do once you find them.”
Enjoy the show!
Celena Marie DelPizzo-Howell
