A wealth of shows that have the local critics raving has pulled me out of my sabbatical from writing. First up is Sacramento Theatre Company’s Mainstage production of “The Miracle Worker.”

The production deserves all the praise that has been heaped on it. Beginning with William Gibson play, based on Helen Keller’s biography,though over 50 years old still strongly resonates today, with a look at how hard it can be the family of a special needs child and how a combination of knowledge, persistence dedication and so forth can create a miracle.

What drew me to the production was that some of my favorite actors were cast in the production and they didn’t disappoint. Starting with Brittni Barger who is superb as Annie Sullivan the very young woman that manages to open the deaf, mute, blind Helen to the world.

Brittni Barger as Annie Sullivan with Bella Bagatelos as Helen Keller (Image by: Kelly Christoffersen)

Two actors from the SCT Young Professionals Conservatory play each of the younger characters in alternating performances. Helen is played by Bella Bagatelos, about whom SacPress contributor Barry Wisdom wrote a nice article about and Courtney Shannon who’s performance I saw at yesterday's matinée.

Bella Bagatelos as Helen Keller with Brittni Barger as Annie Sullivan (Image by: Kelly Christoffersen)

Shannon’s performance as the deaf, mute, blind girl was so believable it was frightening. She also has great chemistry with Barger.

Fellow YPC member Griffith Munn really shined as James Keller, Helen’s older half brother, who finds the courage to stand up to their imperious father.

Gary Wright, Griffith Munn, Tahlema Martin, Bella Bagatelos and Michele Hillen (Image by: Kelly Christoffersen)

The cast member that has to be the most proud would have to be Michele Hillen education director at STC, whose students do such a great job performing along side Hillen who as Helen’s mother Kate gives a performance that I could only describe as very sweet in every positive sense.

Director Greg Alexander, a fine actor himself, brought out wonderful performance from all of this talented cast, while pacing the play with the action feeling neither rushed or dragging.

Warning, there are only three performances left, Friday and Saturday 8:00 pm and last performance Sunday 2:00 pm.

“The Miracle Worker” Sacramento Theater Company
Box Office (916)443-6672  On Line www.sactheatre.org