A "Miraculous" Donor Preview Event: Recap

By Susan Wiedmeyer 

On Thursday, January 11, 2018, seventy-five First Stage supporters gathered to celebrate the preview performance of THE MIRACULOUS JOURNEY OF EDWARD TULANE. Based on the celebrated book by Newbery Award-winning author Kate DiCamillo, this heartwarming story interwoven with Ragtime-inspired music (performed live) took us on an unforgettable journey of friendship and love.

Event attendees enjoyed dinner and refreshments as they heard from the production’s director, John Maclay, and music director, Jeff Schaetzke.

John Maclay speaks from the heart about EDWARD TULANE

“This is my favorite kind of play—with a tight company of six actors playing two dozen characters while also performing as musicians. Live original music combined with simple but inventive theatrical design helps to create the kind of experience one can only find in the theater.” – John Maclay

John continued to share the story of the toy porcelain rabbit named Edward Tulane. Edward begins his journey throughout America before and after the Great Depression with ample amounts of vanity and pride, though he soon acquires fear, joy, loss, and sadness.

“This journey promises in its grand title to be miraculous… but what is the miracle? Love. Love is the miracle that Edward must learn.” – John Maclay

Jeff Schaetzke plays musical themes for guests

From the piano, Jeff Schaetzke talked about the production’s original music composed by Joe Cerqua. He also played the musical themes one by one so that the audience members knew what to listen for during the play. Joe’s music beautifully underscores the emotions Edward feels throughout his journey—almost like program music—descriptively capturing Edward’s experiences.

·         Ragtime Theme: This Joplin-like tune serves as an introduction to scenes and underscores Edward’s traveling.

·         Waltz Theme: This easy and melancholy tune sweetly appears as Edward dances with Abilene.

·         Nautical Theme: This tune accompanies Edward on the high seas as he journeys by boat.

·         Launching Theme: Edward experiences rough times when this tune returns.

·         Blues Theme: Later in the play, we hear this tune as we go to Memphis with Edward.

“The music takes us further than the words can by themselves.” – Jeff Schaetzke

Thank you to our generous donors who joined us for the donor preview event and to all of you who believe in our mission—making our programming and productions possible.

“May we all be reminded to live in the moment, cherish what we have, and never lose faith in the power of love.” – John Maclay