She persisted, a children's story by Chelsea Clinton, has been adapted into a delightful family musical enjoying its regional premiere at Adventure Theater & ATMTC Academy. There could not be a better time to remind young and old alike that women's voices matter.
In the story, a school trip to a women's history museum turns into a trip back in time when Naomi meets historical women who have left their mark on American history throughout “time.” This is the optimal word, since Naomi's transportation through the adventures is actually done via a character identified as “Time”. Whirling along a hexagonal floor, Naomi finds herself transported through (and with) Time to hear stories from figures such as Virginia Apgar, Sally Ride, Harriet. Tubman, Florence Griffith Joyner, Sonia Sotomayor and Ruby Bridges (plus an enthusiastic nod to Oprah!). Six talented performers take on different roles and deliver the most poignant funny moment I've experienced all year.
The storyline is superb with Naomi played to perfection by Ariana Caldwell, trying to find her place in her group of friends, striving for perfection and feeling anxious that she will fail, and this suffocates her. A simple wish comes to life when the bubbly Time, an exuberant Chelsea Majors, enters the scene and escorts her to characters Naomi has only read about in history books. Naomi discovers that the legendary figures didn't do it. plan be icons, but they were simply living their lives as best they could – and that was enough. Each has a mantra or saying, accompanied by their own special song – terrific music by talented composer Deborah Wicks La Puma and lyrics by playwright Adam Tobin – that represents their journey. Each visit pushes Naomi to come out of her insecurities and believe in herself.
The storyline ebbs and flows, creating dramatic tension with each character. There's a logical reason why everyone appears, so it's not just a series of people. Everyone makes a difference in Naomi's life by showing the importance of getting out. about faith beyond comfort and tradition. Whether it's finding new ways to solve problems, staying curious about your surroundings, running your race, traveling through space, or just keeping walking, the characters guide Naomi to she persists and gives the best of herself.
Yaritza Pacheco's exceptional sound and Hailey LaRoe's projections propel the story, director Mary Hall Surface keeps the pace energetic, and Ashleigh King's rocking choreography fits in with the music and inspired story for a good time fiery. Megan Holden's tiered set design provides flowing side entrances, which comes in handy for the famous people depicted. For example, at one point, out of nowhere, the sky becomes dark with twinkling stars and a quiet stillness. When, like Naomi, we wonder what is going on, a figure identified as Harriet Tubman enters, dressed in a stunning Paris Francesca costume, and we are all transported back to that time in search of hope. It was incredible.
She persisted is captivating because Naomi asks how and why the pioneers accomplished so much, and the storyline asks everyone to dig beneath the surface and show their tenacity to overcome obstacles and succeed. When at one point Naomi feels inspired enough by the stories to take a stand, she suddenly breaks down, unsure of just being a young person: How can a fourth grader make a difference? This is when the story and images of Ruby Bridges emerge with the song “Walk On”. She persisted shows the power of tackling whatever comes your way by staying the course, not needing to be perfect, but giving it your all. Such powerful messages are needed by everyone.
The all-female-led casting and design team is also exciting. Adventure Theater MTC acknowledges that several of the show's creators – director Mary Hall Surface, composer and musical director Deborah Wicks La Puma and choreographer Ashleigh King – are mothers of only daughters. The creative team's dedication also extends “to all the girls who learn from the women who came before them and strive to improve the world for the girls who will follow them.” » New CEO Sarah Chapin even returned to the stage playing Sally Ride and Dr. Virginia Apgar – how cool is that that?!
Chelsea Clinton says she was inspired to write the book after seeing Elizabeth Warren being dissuaded from completing her remarks during a congressional nomination process. “And yet she persisted” became a national slogan that resonates today, along with others such as emphatically declaring “I speak now.”
She persisted is so important for all kinds of reasons. Rarely do we see a show with so much heart and verve for all ages. This is the perfect time, space and georegion to tell and share stories. The shows are sold out, so I suggest calling soon for seats and persisting!
Duration: 60 minutes without intermission.
She persisted is played until November 3, 2024 (Wednesday to Sunday at 11 a.m., Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m.), at MTC Adventure Theater (ATMTC), 7300 MacArthur Boulevard, Glen Echo, MD. Tickets ($27, with group and tour rates available) are available online or by calling the box office at 301-634-2270.
This show is suitable for all ages, but will be especially enjoyed by students familiar with the concept of school and field trips.
This show uses strobe and flashing lights as visual effects. Please note that photosensitive people may be affected.
The digital program for She persisted East here.
COVID Safety: Masks are currently optional for Adventure Theater for most performances.
She persisted
Based on the book by Chelsea Clinton and illustrated by Alexandra Boiger
Directed by Mary Hall Surface
Screenplay and lyrics: Adam Tobin
Composer/Musical Director: Deborah Wicks La Puma
WITH
Ariana Caldwell as Naomi
Jordyn Taylor as Harriet Tubman and Florence Griffith-Joyner
Edima Essien as Ruby Bridges and Bailey
Sarah Chapin as Sally Ride and Dr. Virginia Apgar
Victoria Gómez as Sonia Sotomayor and Juno
Chelsea Majors as Ms. Chan & Time
CREATIVE/DESIGN TEAM
Choreographer: Ashleigh King
Scenographer: Megan Holden
Lighting Designer: Lynn Justin
Sound designer: Yaritza Pacheco
Real Estate Designer: Andrea “Dre” Moore
Costume designer: Paris Francesca
Projection Designer: Hailey LaRoe
Director: Shannon Saulnier
Assistant manager: Mary Doebel
SEE ALSO:
“She Persisted” Musical Kicks Off Adventure Theater Season (report, August 28, 2024)
