Since its opening nearly two years ago, Compass Rose Studio Theater in Annapolis has focused on offering high-quality theater education, as well as plays that embrace moral richness. This month, CRST is performing The Miracle Worker through the 11th at its new venue located in the Eastport Shopping Center.
The Miracle Worker is an extraordinary true story about the adversity and tenacity of Helen Keller, who was blind and deaf since infancy. The play’s namesake references Keller’s teacher Annie Sullivan, who was determined to teach Keller how to communicate and learn as if she had no limitations. “Communication is the heart of theater. Words expressing ideas and creating a story. This play encompasses warmth, humor, inspiration as well as expresses the mission of Compass Rose Studio Theater,” says director and CRST founder Lucinda Merry-Browne.
Audiences can expect a family-friendly production that includes custom-made sets with unique features, hand-sewn costumes that reference the 19th century, professional lighting, and more. The nine-member cast includes: Annalie Ellis (Helen), Colleen Marie Arnold (Annie), Chris Briante (Mr. Keller), Rebecca Dreyfuss (Kate), Jonathan Rubin (James), Murjani Sowell (Viney), Kennedy Smith (Martha), Rachel Opert (Prissy), and Tim Wolf (Dr. Anagnos).
CRST’s cast ranges in ages and experience, from Murjani Sowell’s acting debut to Chris Briante’s status in the Actors’ Equity Association. While the cast and crew can’t pinpoint a favorite scene, they can agree on one of the most dramatic and memorable scenes. “It’s quite climactic when Annie and Helen have a massive battle of the wills in the Keller’s family dining room, leaving Annie the victor and the dining room a wreck,” says Merry-Browne.r
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Annalie Ellis (Helen) and Colleen Arnold (Annie) take a eak from rehearsing.
