Amidst scattered showers, the laughter and entertainment continued as planned for the annual Heritage Fest at the Wayne County Historical Museum and newest addition of a tent show and melodrama.
Never having attended a melodrama, we did not know what to expect. But we were soon apprised of what parts we would play in the production as active audience participants. The emcee who was also the villain of the show told us when to boo, hiss, cheer and express sympathy for the heroine by saying “Aww..” each time she said something sweet.
The Cast from Civic Theatre
was first class with a villainous cad and a prior dance hall girl “with a heart of gold”, a very young hero and many other great characters. For almost two hours the audience was mesmerized by this farce about the seat of the county courthouse.
Children and adults of all ages clapped, booed, threw popcorn at the villain (which was allowed), and cheered vigorously for the hero. The ending brought a tear to more than one eye, even though this was a melodrama.
And the excitement did not end as we enjoyed all the offerings of the Heritage Festival. The reenactment camp was preparing their dinner for the evening over an open fire and the aroma wafted over the camp.
Caught in the Midst of a Skirmish
Later I was caught in the midst of a skirmish when a woman in Civil War Period attire was accosted by some roughnecks who tried to take her food basket. Gunfire broke out all about us as someone stepped in to save her from the louts.
Needless to say –this was unexpected but I held my own as I witnessed the violence enacted.
After my heart left my throat our tour continued with the blacksmith who was working hard , as well as a woodcarver.
Finally, a trip through the museum and a chat with Sue King, Board Member, dressed in period clothing and Guntis Atkins, also a Board member who was cleaning up after the horse and carriage rides—as we came to the end of a fantastic day and another wonderful year of the Heritage Festival at the Wayne County Museum.
0 comments