The County Seat Theater Company will present the drama “The Elephant Man” by Bernard Pomerance at the Encore! Performing Arts Center in Cloquet.
“The acting and technical aspects of this show will amaze you,” said General Manager and actor Joel Soukkala. “Director Mary Smith and company spared no expense for this show, including original slides from the Broadway production and a live score performed by cellist Andrew Roemhildt.”
This story is based on the life of John Merrick, who lived in London during the latter part of the 19th century. A horribly deformed young man, victim of rare skin and bone diseases, he has become the star freak attraction in traveling sideshows. Found abandoned and helpless, he is admitted to London's prestigious Whitechapel Hospital. Under the care of celebrated young physician Frederick Treves, Merrick is introduced to London society and slowly evolves from an object of pity to an urbane and witty favorite of the aristocracy and literati only to be denied his ultimate dream, to become a man like any other.
Greg Anderson of Carlton plays the role of John Merrick.
“My deepest admiration goes to Greg Anderson for his portrayal of John Merrick,” said cast member Ruthie Breuer. “To be able to transform both vocally and physically into this character is amazing to watch.”
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The County Seat Theater Company will present performances of “The Elephant Man” Sept. 26-28 and Oct. 2-5 at the Encore Performing Arts Center in Cloquet. Performances are at 7 p.m. except Sunday performances at 2 p.m. Tickets can be reserved by calling the box office at 218-878-0071 or online at www.countyseattheater.com .
Since 2008, the County Seat Theater Company has been located in the Encore Performing Arts Center at 2035 Highway 33 S. (on Frontage Road) in Cloquet. Check the website for alternate driving directions as Highway 33 is under construction and a detour is necessary to get to the theater at this time. The theater offers a full season of local performances, as well as youth productions, musical acts and has an art gallery featuring work by local artists.
