Letter: Don’t miss ‘Wanda June’ by Richland Players
Recently, I witnessed Kurt Vonnegut Jr.’s only stage work, Happy Birthday, Wanda June. It may be the best piece of local art I have seen in a long time. I implore you to see this at the Richland Players over the next two weekends. If you love theater with a purpose, this can’t be missed.
Written by Vonnegut as an anti-Vietnam War piece, its politics don’t distract from an incredible story/plot ( a locally relevant World War II aspect is also included). If you have read any of Vonnegut’s stories, you know that he does not write heroes or villains, only people.
The director not only assembled a perfect cast, but stages incredibly moving moments from start to finish. From a youth wielding a powerful firearm to a doctor leaping from the 22nd floor, the show is enthralling both artistically and technically. The show is unmistakably 1970s, though it translates not only to modern times but the history of mankind. As stated by the leading lady: “This is a simple-minded play about men who enjoy killing and those who don’t.” Their reasons for killing (either enemies, dreams or peace) is the story of this show.
William Thurston, Richland
This story was originally published July 27, 2017 at 1:24 PM with the headline "Letter: Don’t miss ‘Wanda June’ by Richland Players."