AMERICAN PLAYERS THEATRE: Our Town, Once Upon a Bridge, & The Merry Wives of Windsor

The American Player Theatre is just a quick drive north to Wisconsin. They produce a wide range of shows each summer in both their large outdoor theatre and smaller indoor location. It is always worth the drive and now in its 44^th season, there are still months left of productions available.

Our Town

It’s hard to explain the power of Our Town. It’s a quiet play about everyday life. It’s set in the town of Grover’s Corners, NH in the early 20th century. The cast of townspeople invites us to imagine with them as they go about their daily routines without much fuss. Truly, it sounds boring if you look at that summary. But what words can’t capture is the sweet moments between a husband and wife as they contemplate their child’s impending marriage or the zing of connection when two young teens first fall in love.

Samantha Newcomb plays Emily Webb a sharp and ambitious girl growing up in the town. Her story is at the heart of the play and it’s her brilliant, but simple observations that are bound to break your heart. She delivers her lines with an earnestness that conveys the depth of her feelings.

The stage manager, Sarah Day, breaks the fourth wall, and talks directly to the audience, moving us between scenes and explaining the context. The show is timeless in its simplicity. There are three acts and time passes quickly for the town. There is power in the minimalism of the set. With just two sets of tables and chairs and two ladders, the whole town unfolds before us. Playwright Thornton Wilder always intended it to be that way and it’s easy to understand why. The production should never be showy. All that’s needed are a few pieces of furniture and a cast that brings open hearts and APT doesn’t disappoint.

Once Upon a Bridge

Based on a viral video of a real event that happened in London in 2017, this 95-minute play is a gorgeous ballet of emotions. The video is of a man pushing a woman into oncoming traffic as he jogs on the Putney Bridge. A bus driver swerves to miss her and the rest of the story is a mystery. The playwright, Sonya Kelly, takes those basic facts and imagines a whole story with depth and heart. It’s a serious premise, but the story is so deeply human that humor and sarcasm are woven into every monologue. The tone of the story is reminiscent of Come From Away.

The unnamed woman is an Irish barrister played by Elizabeth Reese. She is lovely but conveys a fierce strength that lies underneath her calm exterior. Marcus Truschinski captures the dislikable cocky and entitled character of “Man” and gives us a chance to step into his shoes for a moment. La Shawn Banks steals the show as the immigrant bus driver, who wears his emotions on his sleeve. He’s full of ambition, but also fear, love, and determination. He is a devoted family man and the beating heart in the production.

There are no props or set pieces. The three actors mime and move, using their bodies in a subtle dance to portray each action. Laura Rook’s gentle direction turns a shocking moment into a tender meditation on connection. She steers each actor’s flow on and off the stage to create a waltz of sorts.

The play captures one simple moment in time, but it’s also a distilled representation of the way people treat each other and the massive impact we all have on the lives of others. We often forget the importance of our tiny interactions and this gorgeous piece of theatre is a exquisite reminder. 

The Merry Wives of Windsor 

An explosion of color and rollicking music welcomes audiences in this outlandish version of Shakespeare’s comedy. Playfully full skirts, cheeky top hats, and bursts of pop music make the show so delightful. Dee Dee Batteast and Kelsey Brennan are the titular wives. Their irresistible friendship is what makes the show so much fun. Nate Burger brings heart to the humorous show as the insecure and untrusting husband. He’s desperate to save his reputation then also his marriage. Add David Daniel to the list of epic Falstaffs. He’s portly and proud and leans into the role relishing each bawdy gesture. I dare anyone to watch this show and leave not understanding how hilarious and playful Shakespeare truly was.

The American Players Theatre is open until October 8th for its regular season. It will host additional shows in its indoor Touchstone Theatre.

The theater's outdoor seats are comfortable, but definitely bring a jacket, rain parka, blanket, bug spray, or sunblock depending on the weather. The show will go on even if it's chilly or drizzling. There are easily accessible restrooms and concessions at both the Up-the-Hill Theatre and the Touchstone Theatre. There are also picnic tables for those who bring lunch or dinner before a show.

There are plenty of camping/B&B/cabin/hotel options nearby, depending on your preference. You can find additional information about where to lodge, restaurants, and other attractions on APT's website.

For more information about APT and Spring Green, WI visit its website. Spring Green, Wi is only 6 hours from Indianapolis and makes a perfect weekend getaway! There are attractions for the entire family in addition to the APT, including the Wisconsin Dells water parks, House on the Rock, Taliesin, and a golf resort.

Photos courtesy of APT