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MONMOUTH — Theater at Monmouth continues its long-standing tradition of bringing adaptations of classic literature to students across Maine with its annual Page to Stage tour.
The theater has provided literature-based education programs in schools and community centers since its founding. Education tours make adaptations of classic literature accessible to a geographically and economically diverse audience.
From April 22 through May 24, the Page to Stage Tour will bring classic literature to life for students in grades pre-k to eight, with a world-premiere production of “Tall Tales Twice Told” by TAM’s producing artistic director Dawn McAndrews.
“Tall Tales Twice Told” is a collection of American folk tales featuring characters and situations larger than life and older than time. From Paul Bunyan and his Big Blue Ox to John Henry, “Steel Driving Man: and Johnny Appleseed, “The Planter of Orchards,” to Kate Shelley, “Saving the Midnight Express” — these timeless and timely tales introduce students to American history and culture.
Students will learn how tall tales are passed on from generation to generation, how they employ exaggeration, and how they convey a message or make a point. TAM’s adaptation helps students examine stereotypes and behaviors through activities and discussions before and after the performance, exploring ways to take responsibility for their actions and become both confident and caring citizens.
In 2018, TAM brought “Aesop’s Guide to Friendship” to schools across the state. “The presentation was an engaging way to present fables as well as a good door opener to discussing social skills, like friendship and perseverance,” said Judith Sprague, a teacher at Leeds Central School in Leeds. Jillian Merrill, a teacher at Turner Primary School, said “Bringing the arts to our students is important as many do not get this opportunity. As an educator, I love having a new and exciting way to bring the arts to my students.”
Chicago-based director Brittany Gillespie is excited to make her Theater at Monmouth directing debut with this production. Gillespie is casting director and artistic associate at Stage Left Theater and has directed plays for adults and young people since graduating from the University of Arkansas.
“Tall Tales Twice Told” features four actors — three making their first appearance at TAM — Robbie Harrison as Johnny Appleseed, Ian Fermy as John Henry, Kalyn Altmeyer as Kate Shelley, and John Dalton Logan as Paul Bunyan. All four actors play characters in the other’s tales. Set design by Stacey Koloski, costume design by Elizabeth Rocha, and lighting design by Jim Alexander.
Theater at Monmouth, founded in 1970, was named the Shakespearean Theater of Maine in 1975. The theatre’s mission is to present innovative approaches to Shakespeare and other classic plays through professional productions that enrich the lives of people throughout Maine. Since its founding, TAM has produced expertly crafted, engaging productions in its three-month Summer Repertory Season entertaining audiences from 36 states and through annual education tours, reaching more than 15,000 students statewide.
