She Persisted, a children’s story by Chelsea Clinton, has been adapted into a delightful family-friendly musical enjoying its regional premiere at Adventure Theatre & ATMTC Academy. The timing couldn’t be better to remind young and oldsters alike that women’s voices matter.
In the story, a grade school field trip to a Women’s History Museum turns into time travel when Naomi meets historic women who made history across the U.S. throughout “time.” That’s the optimal word, since Naomi’s transport through the adventures is actually via a character identified as “Time.” Swirling along a hexagonal floor design, Naomi finds herself whisked through (and with) Time to hear stories from such figures as Virginia Apgar, Sally Ride, Harriet Tubman, Florence Griffith Joyner, Sonia Sotomayor, and Ruby Bridges (plus an excited nod to Oprah!). Six talented performers take on various roles and deliver the most poignant fun time I’ve had all year.
The script is superb with Naomi played to perfection by Ariana Caldwell, trying to find her place in her gaggle of friends, yearning for perfection, and distressed feeling she’ll fall short, and that stifles her. A simple wish takes on a life of its own when bubbly Time, an exuberant Chelsea Majors, pops into the scene and escorts her to characters Naomi has only read about in history books. Naomi finds out that the legendary figures didn’t plan to be icons but were simply living their lives the best they could — and that’s enough. Each has a mantra or saying, backed up with their own special song — terrific music by the talented composer Deborah Wicks La Puma and lyrics by playwright Adam Tobin — that represents their journey. Each visit propels Naomi to step out from her insecurities and believe in herself.
The script ebbs and flows providing dramatic tension with each character. There’s a logical reason each shows up so it’s not just a series of people. Each one makes a difference in Naomi’s life by showing the importance of stepping out on faith beyond comfort and tradition. Whether it’s find new ways to solve problems, stay curious about what’s around you, run your race, ride to space, or just keep walking, the characters guide Naomi to persist and be her best self.
Outstanding sound by Yaritza Pacheco and projections by Hailey LaRoe propel the story, director Mary Hall Surface keeps the energic pace flowing, and Ashleigh King’s rocking choreography meshes with the music and inspired story for a spirited good time. Megan Holden’s multilevel set design provides smooth side entries, which come in handy for the renowned personae being portrayed. For example, at one point, from out of nowhere, the sky darkens with twinkling stars and quiet stillness. When like Naomi we wonder what is going on, a figure identified as Harriet Tubman enters, cloaked in a terrific costume by Paris Francesca, and we are all transported to that time yearning for hope. It was incredible.
She Persisted is captivating because as Naomi asks how and why the trailblazers accomplished so much, and the script has each one dig past the surface and show their tenacity to overcome obstacles and achieve. When at one point Naomi feels inspired enough by the stories to take her stance, she suddenly melts down with insecurity about just being a youngster — how can a fourth-grader make a difference? That’s when the story and pictures of Ruby Bridges come to light with the song “Walk On.” She Persisted shows the power of tackling whatever’s in the way by staying the course, not having to be perfect, but giving one’s all. Such powerful messages are needed by all.
Also exciting are the fully woman-led cast and design team. The Adventure Theatre MTC recognizes that the several of the show’s creators — Director Mary Hall Surface, Composer and Music Director Deborah Wicks La Puma, and Choreographer Ashleigh King — are mothers who happen to have only daughters. The dedication of the creative team is also “to all girls who learn from the women who came before them and strive to better the world for the girls who come after them.” New Managing Director Sarah Chapin has even hit the boards again playing Sally Ride and Dr. Virginia Apgar — how cool is that?!
Chelsea Clinton indicates that she was inspired to write the book after watching Elizabeth Warren being deterred from completing her remarks during a congressional nomination process. “And yet, she persisted” became a catchphrase nationwide that resonates today, along with others such as forcefully stating “I am speaking now.”
She Persisted is so important for all kinds of reasons. Rarely do you see a show with this much heart and verve for all ages. This is the perfect time, space, and geo-region to tell and share the stories. Shows are selling out, so I suggest calling fast for seats and persisting!
Running Time: 60 minutes with no intermission.
She Persisted plays through November 3, 2024 (Wednesday to Sunday at 11 am, Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm), at Adventure Theatre MTC (ATMTC), 7300 MacArthur Blvd, Glen Echo, MD. Tickets ($27, with group and field trip rates available) are available online or by calling the box office at 301-634-2270.
This show is appropriate for all ages, but may be best enjoyed by students familiar with the concept of school and field trips.
This show uses strobe and flashing lights as visual effects. Please be advised that people with photo sensitivity may be affected.
The digital program for She Persisted is here.
COVID Safety: Masks are currently optional for Adventure Theatre for most performances.
She Persisted
Based on book by Chelsea Clinton and Illustrated by Alexandra Boiger
Directed by Mary Hall Surface
Script and Lyrics: Adam Tobin
Composer/Music Director: Deborah Wicks La Puma
FEATURING
Ariana Caldwell as Naomi
Jordyn Taylor as Harriet Tubman & Florence Griffith-Joyner
Edima Essien as Ruby Bridges & Bailey
Sarah Chapin as Sally Ride & Dr. Virginia Apgar
Victoria Gòmez as Sonia Sotomayor & Juno
Chelsea Majors as Ms. Chan & Time
CREATIVE/DESIGN TEAM
Choreographer: Ashleigh King
Set Designer: Megan Holden
Lighting Designer: Lynn Justin
Sound Designer: Yaritza Pacheco
Properties Designer: Andrea “Dre” Moore
Costume Designer: Paris Francesca
Projections Designer: Hailey LaRoe
Stage Manager: Shannon Saulnier
Assistant Stage Manager: Mary Doebel
SEE ALSO:
Empowering musical ‘She Persisted’ to kick off Adventure Theatre season (news story, August 28, 2024)
