Little Nell, the Orphan Girl

Melodrama is taken for granted as an American theater form, although its origins can be traced back to France and even further back to the Greeks (No, not the Geeks!). The idea that we can boo the villain, cheer the hero, and sigh with the trials of our heroine is somehow very appealing to American audiences, even today. We can still embrace "melodrama" daily, in the form of soap operas--knowing that one character is truly evil, and will remain so throughout the course of the story, and that at least one human being is truly virtuous, and is also immutable. Realism be damned!! The music plays a vital part, as the familiar melodies, taken chiefly from major operas, warn us of danger and guide our sympathies through the contrived turns of the plot. A good deal of the fun is derived from audience participation when the traditional theatrical concept of the fourth wall is put aside (pun intended). The piano will guide you as you become participants in the emotional ride that is Nell, the Orphan Girl, or A Fight for a Woman's Honor!

- Chuck Ramsey, Director