First Baptist of Ivy Gap
The women of Ivy Gap who’ve gathered in the church meeting room at First Baptist have as much to learn about themselves as they do each other. Barksdale Theatre at Hanover Tavern’s current production of “First Baptist of Ivy Gap” introduces us to Luby, Olene, Mae Ellen, Edith, Sammy and Vera, who have come together to help the war effort and discuss plans for the church’s 75th anniversary.
The women of Ivy Gap who’ve gathered in the church meeting room at First Baptist have as much to learn about themselves as they do each other. Barksdale Theatre at Hanover Tavern’s current production of “First Baptist of Ivy Gap” introduces us to Luby, Olene, Mae Ellen, Edith, Sammy and Vera, who have come together to help the war effort and discuss plans for the church’s 75th anniversary.
As World War II comes to an end, the women of Ivy Gap talk about their fears as well as their dreams for the future while rolling bandages for the Red Cross. During their conversations, they spar, laugh, joke and reminisce. The lighthearted mood is interrupted when Sammy, a young girl from a neighboring county, shows up to help causing Luby, whose son is fighting in the war, to become distraught. There is also tension mounting between church organist Mae Ellen and Vera, a wealthy and high-ranking member of the congregation.The play’s second act takes place 25 years later when the church is gearing up for its 100th anniversary and the Vietnam War is at its height. When the women finally get together once again, we learn of the choices they’ve made and the secrets they have been guarding.
When it comes to the ensemble cast, Director Bruce Miller couldn’t have made better choices. The ensemble is strong and talented. The interaction between characters feels genuine and spontaneous.
Each woman on stage brings her special talents to the production. Maggie Roop and Sarah Pruden who play Mae Ellen and Olene bring energy and humor to their roles. Their scenes together are some of the funniest in the show, especially when Olene reveals the path she’s taken since leaving Ivy Gap. As Edith, the pastor’s wife, Jan Guarino is in her element. Her Pixie-like performance is fun to watch. Harriett Traylor provides a solid performance as Vera as does Ali Thibodeau in her role as Sammy. As Luby, a mother who can’t let go of her son, Joy Williams shines. Her emotional performance is first-rate.
“First Baptist of Ivy Gap” will warm your heart on a cold late winter night. It runs through March 14th at Barksdale Theatre at Hanover Tavern.
For V for Women and joantupponce.com, this is Joan with "One Woman's View."
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