Review: THE MIRACLE WORKER at Florida Rep is Stunningly Inspirational!

Florida Repertory Theatre always manages to bring an inspiring sense of wonder to their stage through their productions, and they proved this again with THE MIRACLE WORKER. They brought together the well-known, classic true story of Helen Keller and her teacher, phenomenally talented actors, a beautiful set and costumes, and, with a little bit of their Florida Rep magic, created a show that is not to be missed.

Liza Jayne Longenhagen was beyond spectacular as Helen Keller. Because Helen is a deaf and blind character, her emotions have to be expressed mostly through movement, and Longenhagen executed this flawlessly; I have no doubt that she will continue to be a star as she gets older. Florida Rep worked with a local school for the deaf and blind to accurately present this story, and it was evident that they took time and effort to make sure every detail was correct.

Betsy Hogg made her Florida Rep debut in this production as Annie Sullivan, and she was incredible. She brought emotion, wit, and humor to her character, which allowed the audience to really cheer for Annie in her efforts to teach Helen language. She and Longenhagen's Helen had a genuine connection on stage, and this made the story they portrayed even more touching and special.

Helen's family members in this production, featuring Viki Boyle as Aunt Ev, Dillon Feldman as James Keller, Kate Hampton as Kate Keller, and Peter THomasson as Captain Keller, were all excellent in building a deeper, more powerful story and supporting Longenhagen and Hogg. Feldman had some of the most humorous--and often sarcastic--lines of the show, and his character offered a nice contrast to some of the more intensely emotional and serious moments in this production.

I have to especially recognize the set and lighting designer, Jim Hunter, and the costume designer, Alexandria Vazquez, for their work in this production. This was definitely one of the most beautiful sets I have seen from Florida Rep, and the costumes were so fitting for this time period and story. Florida Rep is always wonderful with detail in their productions, and THE MIRACLE WORKER again showcased how well done their work truly is.

Tickets to THE MIRACLE WORKER at Florida Rep are selling fast, and I can most definitely see why. The storyline and execution of this production drew me in so much that I was surprised first when intermission arrived, and again when the show was over. I absolutely suggest you get tickets to this brilliant, heartwarming show before it is gone, especially if you are curious about the life of Helen Keller. It will inspire both young and old, and leave you with a keen sense of hope.

THE MIRACLE WORKER is playing in the Historic Arcade Theatre at Florida Rep now through March 7. Performances are Tuesday-Thursday at 7PM, Friday-Saturday at 8PM, with 2PM matinees on Wednesday, Sunday, and selected Saturdays. To buy tickets, you can visit www.floridarep.org, call Florida Rep at 239-332-4488, or stop by the box office at 2268 Bay Street, Fort Myers, FL, 33901.

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