NW theater working miracles
by Meredith Waites, reporter

    The NW Campus drama department will bring the story of Helen Keller and Annie Sullivan to life in The Miracle Worker, starting Thursday, Oct. 10.

    Set in the 1880s, this drama revolves around the life of Helen Keller and her first few weeks with a new mentor.

    Under the direction of Brent Alford, NW Campus theater director, the production consists of 15 cast members.

    "This production focuses on a family overcoming extraordinary obstacles," he said.

    Helen's mentor, Annie Sullivan, playswoman making her way in the world. This story involves Annie's coming to grips with things in her own way, Alford said.

    Leah Carithers-Jeffers, who has appeared in several TCC productions, plays the role of Sullivan.

    In the play, Sullivan has several flashback scenes of her haunting childhood, helping viewers understand her thoughts. These flashbacks help one see how Sullivan became an independent woman.

    Sullivan works with Helen in an inspiring manner, Carithers-Jeffers said.

    "I'm the miracle worker. That is who I am," she said.

    Michael McDonald, who has also appeared in many TCC productions, plays Capt. Keller, Helen's father.

    "I'm the typical stern dominant Southern male," he said.

    The role of Capt. Keller shows the struggle of the male world in this time period, McDonald said.

    "It is an uplifting tale of a young woman outside on her own for the first time who encounters a young handicapped child. She is looking for freedom to be able to live in the world of seeing through the darkness of her mind," he said.

    McDonald said that this production shows the introduction of an old-fashioned Southern lady into the modern world of women.

    A 9-year-old actress, Jenny Titiryn, gives a phenomenal performance as Helen Keller. Jenny performs with Kids Who Care at Scott Theatre. Among other places, she has also performed at the Granbury Opera House.

    Jenny plays Helen at the age of 6. At this time in HelenÕs life, she adjusts to a new life style of manners and education.

    The role of Helen's mother, Kate Keller, is played by Kristyn Smith, making her TCC debut.

    A distinct difference between Kate and Annie is portrayed in this production, Smith said.

    "I was so excited when I received this part. There is an enormous amount of emotion going on in this play. There is never a dull moment," she said.

    The other roles include Aunt Ev, James Keller, Viney, Martha, Percy, Dr. Anagos and four blind girls.

    Christian Rogers plays Aunt Ev, who has several appearances.

    Jeremy Lowrance plays James Keller, Helen's brother, a character who provides the comic relief in this production with his cynical attitude.

    Selma Pinkard plays Viney, the Keller's housekeeper.

    "Viney has been with the family a long time. She knows a tremendous amount about the struggles of the Keller family," she said.

    This play consists of three acts in and around the Keller homestead in Tuscumbia, Ala. It is also briefly set in the Perkins Institute for the Blind in Boston.

    The Miracle Worker runs Thursday-Sunday, Oct. 10-13, with 8 p.m. performances Thursday through Saturday.

    Matinee performances will be Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m.

    Tickets are free for TCC students, faculty and staff, $5 for general public and $3 for seniors and other students.

    For more information or reservations, call the NW Campus Theater Box Office at 817-515-7724.