‘What the Constitution Means to Me’ Opens George Street Playhouse’s 50th Season

What the Constitution Means to Me – A Review

George Street Playhouse opens their 50th season with the play What the Constitution Means to Me. Written by Heidi Schreck, this play looks at the U.S. Constitution, Amendments, and Supreme Court decisions in an informative, interesting, and at times fun manner.

There is a saying that theater entertains, inspires, and educates. And this a show that does all three. Laiona Michelle directs the production. In her Director’s Notes, she says:

Everything in this play is magnified because discussions about the very things the play highlights, right down to the state of our democracy, are currently happening in real-time. We are reminded of the urgency of protecting the values on which this country was founded, the freedoms we value, and the
foundational principles of our democracy. We are not a perfect union, but we are a work in progress, and that is worth fighting for.

The play was a Pulitzer Prize finalist and Tony Award nominee running for 164 performances on Broadway in 2019. Playwright Heidi Schreck played the lead role for a time during the run.

Not only does it examine critical parts of the Constitution, but the play also allows the audience to imagine what will happen to the document in the future. What the Constitution Means to Me can work well at any time. However, with a major Presidential election coming very soon, it feels very timely to see this.

Character Background

This production at George Street Playhouse stars two time Tony nominee Kate Baldwin who plays Heidi Schreck. She begins the show by explaining that at 15 years old, she traveled the country giving speeches about the Constitution for prize money. These speeches were at American Legion Halls similar to the set where this production takes place. She further explains her mother came up with this scheme to help her pay for college. It obviously worked well because she was able to pay her entire way through college.

A second character enters. Nicholas Rodriguez plays the role of the Legionnaire and Mike. He provides support and questions to Heidi throughout the show. He also serves as a moderator for the debate. Rodriguez provides an emotional look at the character of Mike as he describes things he has gone through in his own life.

Baldwin provides such an enthusiastic approach to her character that she draws you into the story immediately. She begins by telling the audience that the Constitution is a living document. “That is what is so beautiful about it.” However, she also equates it to being a crucible. She defines the crucible term as being a pot where you put in many different ingredients “and boil them together until they transform into something else.”

Right here, you have a good overview of the attitude Heidi has towards the Constitution and what will come still in the play.

Heidi embodies her teenage self in order to trace the founding document. She weaves in the impact it had on her own life. To create a better synergy, she tells the stories of the past four generations of women in her family and how the Constitution affected them. The approach develops skillfully with true stories and interesting assessments.

The Play Highlights Specific Parts of the Constitution

Specific parts of the Constitution are highlighted throughout the play. Heidi begins with an explanation of Amendment Nine. This Amendment recognizes that just because a certain right is not listed in the Constitution, it doesn’t mean that you don’t have that right.

Amendment Nine is part of the Bill of Rights from 1791. You realize that the founding fathers recognized that things not included in the original document could be needed as the country changed.

This sets the stage for the rest of the play.

Additional Examinations

After Amendment Nine, Heidi moves to Amendment Fourteen where she explains how it was a huge force in the Civil Rights Movement. But she concludes by mentioning that it guaranteed rights only to men, not black women, not indigenous women and not even white women. In fact, it is the first time the word “male” is in the Constitution. This discussion brings up voting rights and also how the Dred Scott Decision tied to this Amendment.

She talks about her great-great grandmother Theresa’s 1879 entry into the U.S. She was considered a “good immigrant” as she came from Germany as a mail order bride.

The presentation of Amendment Fourteen is intense. This Amendment allows Americans the right to travel from state to state and a few other things. A part of this section of the play is the story of Asa Mercer and his doings to bring women to Washington State. It is startling to hear. It reeks of denial of rights to women.

Heidi bravely tells her own story of seeking to get an abortion. She discusses Roe v Wade and implications from passage and later being overturned.

There are other cases with Supreme Court verdicts which were also surprising to hear. One that stands out is Town of Castle Rock v. Gonzales. Here, the lack of enforcement of a restraining order against a wife’s husband is upheld.

Audio runs several times during the play where the audience has a chance to hear clips of the Supreme Court discussing issues which is interesting to hear.

The Debate

“Our Constitution is so old.” But does it still work? Part Two of the show is a Debate that takes place to discuss this very question. The debate involves the merits of the current Constitution verses writing a new document to replace the current Constitution.

The debaters are Heidi and one of two young people selected to be a part of the show. Rotating this role as Debaters are Niara Beckwith and Wobirba Sarpey. The inclusion of young debaters in this part of the show is refreshing with their youthful vibrancy onstage.

A member of the audience is called upon to give their opinion. In the show I attended, the person selected was in favor of keeping the current Constitution. This might vary depending upon the show you attend.

Go to See What the Constitution Means to Me

The play runs 90 minutes with no intermission.

The performance schedule for What the Constitution Means to Me is as follows: Wednesday – Saturday at 7:30pm; Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 2pm.

Exceptions: there will be no evening performance on Friday October 11. There will be additional performances on Tuesday September 24 at 7:30pm and Friday October 11 at 2pm.

Special performances include an English open captioned matinee performance and a Spanish open captioned evening performance on Saturday October 5.

Tickets to What the Constitution Means to Me begin at $25 and are now on sale at www.georgestreetplayhouse.org.

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‘Sense and Sensibility’ is a Theatrical Treat

The cast of Sense and Sensibility. Photo by Avery Brunkus.

Sense and Sensibility Plays at Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey

Attention Jane Austen fans: There is a fabulous new production of one of your favorite Austen novels, Sense and Sensibility, playing in Madison, NJ. Don’t miss your chance to see the time honored classic unfold live onstage at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (STNJ).

Fans of Jane Austen have been on the rise the last few years. STNJ’s Artistic Director Brian B. Crowe recently shared thoughts on this:

“We are thrilled to showcase this great, classic writer once again,” says Artistic Director Brian B. Crowe. “Though it has never waned, Austen’s popularity has certainly been given a huge boost through Shonda Rhimes’ Bridgerton series, and we are pleased to turn audiences’ attention back to the groundbreaking author who inspired that pop-culture hit. It’s been nearly two decades since Jane Austen graced our stage when Bonnie J. Monte’s adaptation of Pride and Prejudice was presented in 2006. Since then, Austen has been a popular request from our patrons, and it seems appropriate that the actress who delightfully brought Jane Bennett to life in that celebrated production now returns to direct this one.”

So whether you are a longtime Jane Austen groupie or a recent convert to the genre, Sense and Sensibility is sure to provide a wonderful theater visit for you. It has romance, compelling characters, as well as love and heartbreak. Helping carry this all out is an outstanding cast and superb staging to bring the story to life.

The play runs about 3 fast paced hours with an intermission. The production is based on an adaptation of the novel written by Jessica Swale.

The Story Focuses on the Dashwood Sisters

The story told in Sense and Sensibility focuses on the three Dashwood sisters and their mother. Their father’s recent death leaves them with grave concerns about how they will survive without him. At first, finances do not seem to be problem as Mr. Dashwood left word with his brother, John Dashwood, to ensure that 1500 lbs. be given every year. Supposedly, that would allow them to stay in their house.

Enter John Dashwood’s wife who convinces him to take back the home where the Dashwood women live and not provide the money. This leaves Margaret Dashwood and her three daughters in a bad situation.

But this was a time period where women did not have much or any control over financial matters. Nisi Sturgis, who directs this production, suggests the following about how Jane Austen handles this dilemma in her writing:

She’s a nascent feminist whose characters are often in the tug of war between being true to oneself and compromising oneself to exist within a society’s rules, standards and expectations: the constant balancing of existence and coexistence.

This is a good description of what takes place in the story. The Dashwood women recognize the need to be under the care and production of a man. But they also want to exercise control over their own lives. Luckily, John Middleton invites the four women to live in a cottage on his estate. It is smaller than their home was but they gratefully accept the offer.

But what next?

Is it a Man Hunt or Vice Versa?

The Dashwood sisters may have recognized the need for marriages in their lives. However, the males who enter their lives are pretty smitten with them and not just for finances. Enter Edward Ferrars and Colonel Brandon. Nice gentlemen who are a bit on the quiet side but smitten none the less with Elinor and Marianne Dashwood. Young sister Margaret is a charming little girl but still too young for a romance.

Then, the oh so charming Willoughby comes on the scene showing great attraction and attention to Marianne who eats it all up. She even agrees to go to Willoughby’s home unchaperoned (a huge no-no back in the day) and listens as he tells her this will all be yours one day. As you watch this unfold, you just know he is up to no good. Later in the play someone calls him a “rogue.” Yes, a good description.

Marianne and Elinor venture on a trip to London where they learn unfortunate news about things Willoughby is involved with – hint: it’s another woman. Marianne takes it hard but she has the love of her sisters to help bolster her up.

This love between the sisters is one of the most endearing parts of the play. Amidst great misfortune, this love between the sisters and their mother provides the strength they need. Eventually each finds their own good match and all ends happily. So yes, they somehow adhere to the expectations of the times but they also know that they have the ability to endure through difficult times as well.

The Cast Provides Noteworthy Performances

The ensemble cast unites new and veteran company members, including Mandi Masden as Elinor and Billie Wyatt as as Marianne. The cast also features Terra Chaney as Margaret Dashwood and Lucy Steele, Lynette R. Freeman as Mrs. Palmer and Mrs. Dashwood, and Christian Frost as Willougby.

Sean Mahan plays Colonel Brandon. It should be noted that some cast members play two or more roles. Patrick Andrew Jsmes is seen as Edward Ferrars and Mr. Palmer. Kayla Ryan Walsh is Fanny Dashwood and Mrs. Jennings, and Patrick Toon plays five roles: Sir John, Mr. Dashwood, Thomas, Mr. Perks, and Doctor.

And the Staging is Outstanding

The stage at STNJ is a nice size for plays. However, much is done with the sets for this show to enhance it even more. This adds a lot of interest to the actions taking place.

The time and place is 1797 and scenes take place in various locations in England including Norland Park, Devonshire, London, and Cleveland.

The amazing creative team for the production includes scenic designer Brittany Vasta, costume designer Sophie S. Schneider. The lighting designer is Anthony Galaska, and sound designer is Liam Bellman-Sharpe. Kimiye Corwin is the dance consultant and Julie Foh is the dialect consultant. Mary Garrigan stage manages.

To Go to the Show

Single tickets for Sense and Sensibility begin at $39 for preview performances and begin at $57 for regular performances. Prices range from $39 to $77. The Theatre offers various cost-saving opportunities,

For tickets, patrons can call the Box Office at 973-408-5600 or visit ShakespeareNJ.org.

Check with the Box Office or online for final performance dates.

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“Diversion” Now Playing Premiere Stages at Kean

: Dani Nelson, Michelle Liu Coughlin and DeAnna Lenhart. Premiere Stages 2024 production of Diversion. Photo by Mike Peters.

Diversion– 2023 Premiere Play Festival Winner

Now playing on the Premiere Stages at Kean is the winner of the 2023 Premiere Play Festival. Written by Scott Organ, the play, Diversion, is a timely selection and one that is ground breaking. It provides a look at a serious problem known as drug diversion. In this play, it involves a group of nurses.

Looking at the use of the word diversion as the title has special meaning. As explained on one of the information boards Premiere Stages created for this show: “Drug diversion occurs when medication is redirected from its intended destination for personal use, sale, or distribution to others.” It can result in a nurse’s criminal prosecution and loss of license. This is a serious situation.

Photo – K. Nowosad – Information boards for this show can be seen in the lobby of Bauer Boucher Theatre.

That definition gives you the basic problem that arises in Diversion. However, there is more to it than that. What makes this new play so timely and ground breaking is that it addresses both the dedication and after effects CoVid 19 had on the nursing profession. The play includes references to those issues. I applaud Playwright Organ and the Premiere Stages for selecting this play as it is time to start talking about this topic.

Drugs are Missing – the Story Begins

Premiere Stages Producing Artistic Director, John J. Wooten, does a marvelous job directing this production. The action drives forward with an air of mystery to it. The story is well written with interesting dialog throughout. It entails meeting the characters. listening to their background issues, and determining if they are a part of the diversion.

Diversion begins with a new nurse on the ICU unit, Mandy (Edit Salas Miller), sound asleep in the break room. When nurse Amy (DeAnna Lenhart) tries to wake her, it becomes apparent that she is in a deep sleep. Several nurses have seen this happen a few times and wonder why this is happening. When she finally wakes up, she explains that she had a late night with her boyfriend.

The other nurses of the unit have issues stemming back from the chaos of CoVid 19. These were the people who were on the front lines treating those who were ill from this virus. They experienced difficulties with having to work double and sometimes triple shifts. Flashbacks of bad experiences haunt some of them as well as some physical problems like a bad knee suffered by Emilia ( Dani Nelson). Also working with this group is nurse is Mike (Lucas Iverson) who has issues with a family member.

The Investigation

Enter Bess ( Jeaniene Green) who supervises the unit. She asks to meet with the entire group. At this meeting, she tells them that drugs were stolen from the hospital. She explains that the hospital has hired a consultant, Josephine (Michelle Liu Coughlin) to try to find out who is involved with the diversion. When Josephine meets the group, she says that she is collecting data; but those who have been there for awhile know better. This inclusion of the consultant seems to be disturbing.

Lucas Iverson, Jeaniene Green, and Michelle Liu Coughlin. Premiere Stages 2024 production of Diversion. Photo by Mike Peters.

As the play moves towards its climax, there are several who could be guilty of the diversion. However, it may come as a surprise when the truth is revealed. Keep in mind the definition of a diversion and that it has several parts to it. That will explain the conclusion that is reached.

The set design add much to this production. You will feel like you are actually in a hospital setting.The professional design team of Bethanie Wampol (Set Designer) and Zack Gage (Sound Designer) deserve a big round of applause for their work. Keep those applause going for Tyler Sautner (Sound Designer), Karen Lee Hart (Costume Designer), Jennifer Bonilla (Props Master), Dale Smallwood (Production Stage Manager), and Jenna Gregson (Assistant Stage Manager).

All in all, Diversion is a play well worth going to see. I hope that this presentation as the Winner of the 2023 Premiere Play Festival is just the beginning for it.

Go to see Diversion

Diversion runs September 5-September 22 in the Bauer Boucher Theatre Center on the Kean University main campus in Union, N.J.

The performance schedule is Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays, September 7 and 14  at 3pm & 8pm. Saturday, September 21 the show is at 3pm and Sundays at 3pm. Newly added to the schedule is a 2pm performance on Friday, September 20.

To purchase tickets, please call the box office at 908-737-7469 or visit Premiere Stages at premierestagesatkean.com

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