Understated historical figures such as Francis Perkins and Doc Suzi came to life last weekend in Moss Performing Arts Center. Chautauqua’s History Alive! event encouraged both applause and education, featuring interpretive performances of historical figures.
Colorado Humanities and Chautauqua have been running this show for 20 years. Colorado Mesa University (CMU) has opened its doors to both organizations this year through the MAV the Vote event series.
As a result of the long standing nature of the performances, the cast has varied over time. Chautauqua has allowed performances from all interested parties, regardless of theatrical experience or familiarity with specific historical figures.
This year, the line-up included four passionate actors, who varied vastly in age. Two of the performers, elementary school students Autumn Power and Kate Stephens, opened the show. They played Fannie Mae Duncan and Susan Anderson respectively. The night marked both of their first performances and showcased extensive research by both students.
“[Power and Stephens] came from working with District 51. The Grand Valley Players [collaborated] with [Chautauqua to provide] both students with unforgettable experiences,” explained Colorado Humanities Chautauqua coach Jessica Downing-Ford.
The remaining performances featured Screen Actors’ Guild actor Jarice Hanson and award-winning artistic director Fred Blanco, playing Frances Perkins and Cesar Chavez respectively. Their monologues embodied years of dedication and emotional attachment.
“Fred[’s] depth of character was excellent. His use of story-telling added [to] my immersion. [The] show brought me into the world of these [figures],” noted acting and directing major Ryan Kleim.
After the applause ended, each actor asked the crowd for any remaining questions about their historical figure. Audience members flocked to everything from Blanco’s encounter with Cesar Chavez’s brother, Richard Chavez, to Mae’s favorite performer at the Cotton Club. Power chuckled at the question and declared that every performer was Mae’s favorite.
As the latest event in the MAV the Vote series, History Alive! aims to help promote civic engagement throughout the voting season. The show’s open forum for questions at the end of each monologue encouraged that principle. Audience members could inspire further knowledge of these stories and broaden their context.
“I want to get more of the community involved. The [performances] were impressive and that is why I joined the program [in the first place]. These shows are deeply educational and are a part of [a] unique [type of] American theater,” commented Colorado Humanities board chair Debra Kalish.
The show’s informative and entertaining qualities were subject to scrutiny through evaluation cards. According to most of the audience, Chautauqua delivered a wonderful performance featuring fresh talent. With this year’s audience feedback, the organization will revive more stories next year and look forward to many standing ovations.
