HEARTWOOD’S "JIM CULLEN" – THEATRICAL ELEMENTS IN PLACE
Opening July 19th as a Heartwood premiere, “The Legend of Jim Cullen” embodies the mission, spirit and quality for which Heartwood has striven, during its first ten years. In this ensemble production, performers and audiences alike will share in an artistic experience which challenges the human spirit.
Artistic expression, in the theatrical realm, begins with a metamorphosis of the performance space, itself. To that end, the Poe Theater has once more been completely transformed, using a full array of production elements which capture the essence of this story.
Director Griff Braley and Tech Director Letitia Munson agree, “The knowledge and understanding of what works in this particular theater space has accumulated over the years. Achieving total production impact demands commitment not only to script and music, but to all of the production elements available to us.”
Set, lights, projections, props, costumes and smoothly executed set changes are threads which must be skillfully woven into a seamless production. When entering the world of Jim Cullen, the blending of these production qualities washes over the audience, transporting them back, back, back …
From a bare, black stage, has risen a set constructed of beams, barrels and burlap, accentuated with birch trees and authentic pieces of history, from long forgotten hooks and piles, in barns along the Midcoast. Lights of every color – spots, gobos and washes – illuminate each moment, each scene. Computer manipulated projections enhance the atmosphere, offering visual insights to this legend from Northern Maine, 1873.
And then – there is music. Original, authentic pieces lift and tell the story, from traditional Canadian and Eastern folk music to edgy new folk sounds, male acapella, an Irish jig, art songs and choral pieces. Ned Steinberger electric stringed instruments, an old harmonium, acoustic guitars, banjo, cajon, and numerous found objects – all blend together in this organic mix of voice and sound.
“The Legend of Jim Cullen” is a summertime combo package of history, music and storytelling, delivered by a talented, committed cast from around the country. Celebrate the opening of this premiere on opening night, as show co-sponsor First Advisors hosts a reception immediately follow the July 19th performance. Make your reservations now, and discover this old legend, told anew.
The bold choice to create original theater is one distinguishing characteristic of Heartwood. Individual donations help make this possible. To make a donation or to learn more about this project, visit Heartwood's Rockethub fundraising portal. Google “Rockethub” and search “Heartwood.” For fun – visit Jim Cullen’s facebook page and see how Jim feels about the show!
“The Legend of Jim Cullen” is funded in part by a grant from the Maine Community Foundation, along with sponsorships from Bath Savings Institution, First Advisors, and the Newcastle Publick House.
Performances will appear in the Parker B. Poe Theater at Lincoln Academy in Newcastle, on July 19 & 20, 26 & 27, Aug 1-3 at 7:30pm. One matinee performance will take place on Sunday, July 28th at 3pm. Tickets are $20 adults / $12 students. Reservations strongly recommended at boxoffice@heartwoodtheater.org OR 207.563.1373. General info at www.heartwoodtheater.org.