Windmill Productions is tackling one of its more controversial subject matters as it prepares to perform a classic about race relations in the Deep South this weekend.
Atticus Finch cross examines Bob Ewell as Judge John Taylor, Sheriff Heck Tate and Mayella Violet Ewell listen during the courtroom scene. (EXAMINER PHOTO | REUBEN MEES)
Set in Maybomb, Ala., in 1935, the stage adaptation of Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird looks at the issue of race and the common bonds of humanity through the eyes of Jean Louise “Scout” Finch as her father, Atticus Finch, a lawyer, defends a black man falsely accused of attacking a white woman.
Director Forrest Amidon says the lesson is as equally important in today’s society — in which racial tension has caused numerous deaths and led to the shooting of police officers — as it was during the era the story was set in and the 1960 publication of the novel.
“Some of the attitudes of that era have resurfaced to disrupt our society,” Mr. Amidon wrote in the director’s notes to the play. “The play asks us to re-examine our attitudes. It reminds us that we each have a choice. Will my choice be to let myself give in to the bigotry, hatred and fear that threatens society? Or, will I choose to become accepting and live in peace with others?”
More photos and complete story in Wednesday’s Examiner.
CLICK HERE to subscribe today!
WEB EDITION STARTING AT $9.50 FOR 5 WEEKS!