BWW Reviews: Deborah Jean Templin and Her UNSINKABLE WOMEN

On October 23rd I was met with an interesting opportunity for an evening of entertainment. I actually had to make a choice. Sit back and watch game 1 of the World Series or hop in a car and make the drive to Concord, New Hampshire to see a one woman show entitled, Unsinkable Women: Stories & Songs from the Titanic. I chose the latter and was not disappointed.

Deborah Jean Templin (National Tours of Mamma Mia, Titanic, Annie and Baby) conceived the idea of the show while on tour with Titanic. This one-woman show is based on actual diaries, letters and interviews from nine women who survived the 1912 tragedy where the Titanic sank on her maiden voyage. Unsinkable Women offers vivid portrayals, punctuated with period songs. Templin takes on the role of these 9 women and tells you their story of how they survived the tragedy and then continued on with their lives.

I will admit; my take on the show is a bit biased. Having worked with Templin in a regional theater on multiple occasions, I already had some knowledge of what she would be bringing to the table, err stage. But given the fact she was bringing this show on the road so close to my home, I had to take the opportunity to see it for myself. Now, I am an avid history buff and the late 19th into the 20th centuries is full of compelling stories of change. The people who lost their lives to the Titanic are a part of that era and getting an opportunity to hear their words come to life was a treat.

Templin eases in an out of each character with fluidity. Subtle changes of wardrobe and accessories while on stage assist her in her journey, as she becomes these 9 women. As she metamorphoses into Daisy Spedden, Eleanor Widener, Marie Racine Cardeza and Molly Brown (amongst others) you envision these women, the period and are made aware of simpler times. With the integration of quick musical numbers to accentuate the story line, you are taken back and reminded that even with modern technology we cannot forget about our past.

Unsinkable Women is a fantastic performance that should not be missed. Young to old, small stages to large, theaters to school cafeterias, if you have the opportunity to visit with Templin or bring her performance to your facility, you should not miss this chance. Even if you have little interest in World History, Templin's Unsinkable Women will help to change your mind.

You can find out more information about Unsinkable Women and her tour dates by logging onto her website at www.djtemplin.com.

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