Angels in the Trees: Rockwell Kent in Winona

written by Lynn Nankivil, directed by Judy Myers
February 8-10, historic Masonic Theatre, Winona

Continuing the new tradition of producing locally penned plays, Theatre du Mississippi presents Lynn Nankivil’s Angels in the Trees: Rockwell Kent in Winona. The play chronicles noted painter, illustrator, and political activist Rockwell Kent’s year in Winona in the early part of the 20th century. The play also coincides with a citywide celebration of Kent’s work.

Nankivil tells the story of Kent’s eventual year in Winona, framed through the memories of a German immigrant couple, Alex and Martha Geckler. While not following a traditional plot line, the selected memories draw a complex character and make for compelling theater. It offers a thoughtful insight into the bravado that would drive Kent’s later success as well as striking flaws that make can’t a deliciously interesting character.

The play is bolstered by strong cast, particularly David Coral, who has appeared locally with both The Commonweal Theater and the Great River Shakespeare Festival, and Karen Dulak as Alex and Martha Geckler. Local coffee mogul Carew Halleck does a fine job as the confident and reckless Rockwell Kent.

Pianist Nancy Edstrom leads a talented, four-piece orchestra that helps place the historical era and deepen the overall texture of the play.

The play opens Friday, February 8.

For tickets BrownPaperTickets.com
For schedules, visit www.theatredumississippi.org.