CITY OF ROSWELL CELEBRATES 150 YEARS WITH HISTORICAL PLAY

*Team of Notable Theatre Professionals Involved in Community Project*

Stories are passed down through families and around communities for generations. Stories change over time; some get lost, others become legends. To celebrate its sesquicentennial, the City of Roswell commissioned renowned playwright Peter Hardy to compile its stories, both legendary and obscure, into a theatrical production.

Based on interviews, diaries, letters, and carefully researched historical documents, The Whisper of the River, will feature a large cast of local actors in period clothing. Live music will set the scenes which include the founding and later burning of the textile mills originally owned by Roswell King, the town’s occupation during the Civil War, the integration of public high schools and other historic events.

The importance of community is fading in this increasingly fast-paced society. Playwright Peter Hardy captures that importance in The Whisper of the River, mixing moments of poignancy with humor. It is not a new task for Hardy who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Dramatic Arts from the University of North Carolina and a Master’s in Theatric Arts from Pennsylvania State University. Hardy has written over 15 plays, winning multiple awards for his exemplary work. His plays have been produced all over the Southeast and in New York City, Miami and Connecticut.

To bring Hardy’s words to life is a task taken on by directors Phillip DePoy and Lee Nowell. Frequently working together, Nowell and DePoy have several writing credits in addition to acting and directing. The experience of this team is important as many of the almost thirty cast members of The Whisper of the River have little or no prior acting experience. Nowell and DePoy have taken the green and seasoned them through rehearsal, creating a truly professional production.

The all-star team assembled for The Whisper of the River also includes Ken Yunker in lighting design. Yunker has spent 14 years as resident lighting designer for the Atlanta Opera and has worked with 16 other producers of opera, ballet, and theatre. Set designer, Rochelle Barker, and costume designer, Joanna Schmink, bring years of professional experience to this historical masterpiece.

The Whisper of the River opens August 12, 2004 and runs through August 29. Showtime is at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. The play will be held at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center at 950 Forrest Street in Roswell. Tickets are $15 for adults on the main floor, $12 for the balcony. Children and seniors ticket prices range from $5 to $12. Tickets are available from the RCAC box office from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and one hour before showtime. For tickets, call 770-641-1260.

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