Village Theatre Starts 'Women On The Cutting Edge' Studio Series With THE MIRACLE WORKER

William Gibson's "The Miracle Worker" kicks off Village Player Theater's "Women on the Cutting Edge" Studio Series for the 2009-2010 season. This tale of struggle and love is directed by Megan Wells and is running at Village Players Performing Arts Center through October 4th, 2009.

"The Miracle Worker" showcases the courageous efforts of Annie Sullivan as she perseveres to give language and discipline to the deaf, blind and mute Helen Keller. As she continues to teach Helen, Annie is troubled by a past she has all but left behind. Recommended by the Chicago Reader for delivering a "focused, forceful performance".

"The Miracle Worker" cast features Marilyn Darnell, Penny Galazkiewicz, Karen Gerbig, Alex Griffin, Kevin Meece, Jocelyn Mills, Zia Okocha, Vito Petruzzelli, Rachel Pospisil, Brian Rabinowitz, Eden Strong and Jake Walczyk.

"The Miracle Worker is the first of Village Player Theater's "Women on the Cutting Edge" Studio Series. This series is comprised of female characters with an "edgy" sensibility or women playwrights who are willing to push boundaries. "The Miracle Worker" is first followed by "Savage in Limbo" by John Patrick Shanley directed by Jacque Lueken (Jan 21--Feb 21, 2010). One women finds her friend's break up an opportunity to fill the lonely void she feels in this confrontational dramedy. Next is "Mud" by Maria Irene Fornes directed by Lawrence Keller (Mar 26--Apr 25, 2010). Mae struggles to get ahead in her life as she finds that the men closest to her are holding her back. The last show of the series is "Polaroid Stories" by Naomi Iizuka directed by Kyra Lewandowski (June 10--July 18, 2010). This play marries the human side of ancient myths with the psychological struggles of modern urban youth.

"The Miracle Worker" is running now until October 4th, 2009. Performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 and Sunday afternoons at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $16 for seniors over 65 and students with a valid I.D. Group rates are available for parties of six or more. Thursday and Sunday are 2 for 1 tickets prices. All performances will be found at the Village Players Performing Arts Center, 1010 Madison St., Oak Park. The theater is near the Harlem exit of I-290 and is also accessible by the CTA Green and Blue lines. Plenty of parking is available on the street. The theater is handicapped accessible but please do call ahead to arrange for special seating. You can find more information by calling 866-764-1010 or visiting www.village-players.org.