1986 Miracle Yearbook

The Glass Menagerie time is the longest distance between two places." T ime is important in this play due to its ability to create memories. Tennessee Williams termed this play a "memory play," for the events are recollections from Tom Wingfield's memory. Beyond that though, memory is important because the memories of each character influence their action throughout the drama. Mrs. Wingfield (Elena Michael) and her memories of life on Blue Mountain inhibit her responsibilities of parenting effectively. Laura (Ruth Margraff), as well, is bound by memories of past failures and humiliations which keep her from assuming a productive life. In a different way, memories motivate Tom (Gary Barker) and the Gentleman Caller (Walter Taylor). For them, memories of disadvantaged childhoods spur their ambitions on to near selfish proportions. The passage of time, however, not only creates memories but also affects their significance. Since an event's significance and level of emotion may be heightened in one's memory, this play holds the potential for enormous impact. The events played out on stage are but Tom's memories and subject to his sentiment. Even in his memories one can see the pessimism, bitterness, and regret. Because of their success in capturing the spirit, Gary, Elena, Ruth, and Walter made their audience feel with them. The brilliant performance given by this cast and crew evoked a pathos among those present in Alford as few other productions ever have. None could help but feel the sorrow and tragedy of this family's plight. However, time moves forward for all, and the lessons learned are soon forgotten. Yet, perhaps a delicate figurine or a bit of colored glass will bring Laura to mind. Because of the efforts of these individuals, Laura's candles may burn in our memories, too. Bruce Keisling (Tom Wingfield) 158 Fall Play