2010 Miracle Yearbook

FALL PLAY Suddenly, Helen realizes the meaning ofwords.The pitcher drops,and life has new meaning. Annie and Kate Keller(Alexandra Turner)fight over the control ofHelen. The determination ofa mother's love and a teacher's desire soon ends in a breakthrough for Helen. T he stage transformed from a bare floor to a Southern household, complete with real grass and a working water pump. Water splashed into the front rows as Helen Keller, portrayed by Laura Anfang, dropped the pitcher when she realized language. Food flew through the air while Annie Sullivan, portrayed by Jessica Hickling, attempted to teach Helen how to fold her napkin. Students packed the theatre to watch The Miracle Worker, the story of Annie Sullivan's struggle to teach Helen Keller and the accomplishments they both achieved in a month. The actors each had the chance to bring to life a character who experienced life in a different time and place."Though many know the name of Helen Keller,few truly know her story. Not to mention there is something in it for everybody: dogs, water fights, wrestling, children, tears, laughter," noted Jessica Hickling. Transformations became the theme once the lights went out. The wild, young girl learned to communicate while the Keller family slowly reconciled their differences."The story of Helen Keller reminded me that if we have the will and bold determination amidst impossible circumstances, our inconceivable goal can be achieved," said Pamela Proctor, who played one of the blind girls. The show was not without its humor. The determination of the characters and the means they used often sent the audience into fits of laughter. The fits Helen threw, which often caused the laughter, could also cause silence. A pin drop could be heard as the little blind and deaf girl finally understood. Jordan Hickling portrayed Captain Keller and had to wear a fake beard for each performance. He said,"The beard did not make peace with my chin during the run of the show, but the reactions of the audience were worth the experience as a whole."