110 Stories - By Elizabeth Hulsbrink

Docudrama by Sarah Tuft
Performed by members of the Geneseo community
By Elizabeth Hulsbrink

Tuesday, September 11, 2001 is a day carved into our memory. Not sketched. Brutally carved. And anyone over the age of about 10 on that day could tell you exactly where they were, what they were doing, and how the world changed when the news of the attacks hit the public.  

Fast-forward to Sunday, September 14, 2025, twenty-four years later, to a local production honoring the victims and giving homage for the survivors.

From the first crash at the Twin Towers to the final goodbye at Ground Zero, 110 Stories, written by Sarah Tuft, offers a raw and moving portrayal of 9/11—told not through news footage or political speeches, but through the real voices of those who lived it. This docudrama, built from actual interviews, weaves together first-person accounts that bring the unimaginable into deeply personal focus.

The cast of characters isn’t made up of officials or celebrities, but of everyday people whose stories are often overlooked: a mother, a photojournalist, an ironworker, a chiropractor, a dog handler, and a homeless man who became an unlikely hero. Each one brought something unique and deeply human to the stage.

One particular character who stood out to me most was the father whose son, of Pakistani descent, was missing. His quiet desperation and restrained emotion were deeply moving. He didn’t need to raise his voice—every word reflected the heavy weight of uncertainty and fear. His story stayed with me, a reminder of the personal pain and quiet strength carried by so many, including families who also faced the burden of cultural bias in the aftermath. 

Another story that resonated with me personally was the mother who couldn’t find her child. Her panic was palpable, and as a parent, I felt her fear deep in my chest. The rawness of her desperation—searching, hoping, not knowing—was heartbreaking. Her story captured the chaos of that day through a deeply personal lens that stayed with me long after the scene ended.

The ironworker’s account particularly stood out to me. It reminded me of the stories my husband often brings home from his own work—tales of courage, hard labor, some laughter (like finding a 40-year-old beer can in a steel beam!) and resilience in difficult conditions. Hearing the ironworker’s experience gave me a new appreciation for the everyday bravery of those who faced unimaginable danger that day.

The dog handler’s story touched me deeply, bringing tears to my eyes as I listened to the incredible tenacity and seemingly impossible endurance of the dog. Through the handler’s words, I could feel the bond between them—the unwavering loyalty and courage that carried them both through unimaginable challenges. It was a powerful reminder of the silent heroes in that tragedy, whose strength and determination often went unnoticed but made a profound difference.

What struck me most was how the play didn’t shy away from the chaos and confusion of that day—many accounts were unfiltered, panicked, even darkly humorous in moments. That balance of emotional weight and raw honesty made it all feel incredibly real.

Each actor spoke from different areas of the stage, creating a tennis-match viewing experience that initially left me feeling annoyed and frustrated—until I realized it was intentional. Kudos to director Jackie Patterson of Geneseo for her creative vision in staging the actors across different areas of the stage, because what first felt disorienting soon revealed itself to be an intentional, powerful choice—mirroring the confusion and chaos of that day. It was a bold move that deepened the emotional impact and pulled me further into the experience.

Perhaps the most powerful aspect of 110 Stories is its refusal to lean into politics. Instead, it honors the human experience—highlighting the compassion, fear, courage, and resilience that united New Yorkers in the face of unthinkable tragedy.

When the program ended, I felt a quiet reserve settle over me—as if speaking aloud would somehow disturb the weight of what we had just witnessed. It felt appropriate to leave in silence, out of respect for the real people whose stories had been shared. That silence became a final act of reverence for the survivors and the lost alike.

In the end, 110 Stories doesn’t just memorialize a tragic day—it breathes life into it, reminding us not just of what was lost, but of the strength that rose from the ashes

Storybook Children’s Theatre Participants to Present Musical Friday and Saturday

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The young actors and actresses involved in the Storybook Children’s Theatre Camp, sponsored by the Geneseo Park District, will stage the musical “Alice in Wonderland,” at performances scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday, July 25, and again at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 26. Both performances will be held in the DePauw Theatre at Geneseo High School, 700 North State St. Tickets for the performances, at $5 for adults and $3 for youth 18 and younger, are available at the front desk of the Geneseo Community Center, 541 East North St., Geneseo.

Young performers have been rehearsing throughout the week at the GHS theatre. They are guided by two professional actor /directors and have had the experience of going through auditions prior to being cast (everyone gets a part), and have been working together to bring the production to life this weekend. All performers will be in costume for the productions.

The Theater Camp is sponsored in part by the Geneseo Park District Foundation, the Geneseo Foundation, Richmond Hill Players and Hazelwood Homes.

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Steel Magnolias, a Heartwarming Enjoyable Show - By Elizabeth Hulsbrink

Steel Magnolias
Richmond Hill Players
May 29-June 1 & June 5-8, 2025
By Elizabeth Hulsbrink

Upon walking into Truvy Jones’ beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, (circa late 1980s), I couldn’t help but notice the pictures on the wall- big hair, lots of perms, classic 1980s fashion, PINK- but the subtle, yet profound, homage to the original 1989 movie cast head shots was the real winner!

Richmond Hill Players’ production of Robert Harling’s Steel Magnolias directed by Megan McConville, was a heartwarming, enjoyable story which the cast and crew delivered as a performance full of charm, humor, and heartfelt moments. Originally written as a short story to help heal personal experience with death due to diabetic complications, moved to an Off-Broadway play, then to the big screen. At the heart of the story is Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie, played with grace and spirit by Leslie Day, whose vibrant life and resilience bring both joy and poignancy to the small-town Louisiana beauty salon where the women of Steel Magnolias gather to share laughter, support, and sorrow.

McConville’s thoughtful direction allowed each actress to shine while creating an authentic sense of friendship and community. Jessica Moore brought warmth and wit to the role of Truvy Jones, the salon’s lively and compassionate owner. Real hair dresser Megan Abell’s portrayal of Annelle Dupuy-Desoto added both innocence and transformation as the newcomer to the group. Pam Kobre was a delight as the stylish and sassy Clairee Belcher, while Suzanne Rakestraw gave a deeply moving performance as Shelby’s strong and loving mother, M’Lynn Eatenton. Rounding out the ensemble, Heidi Hamer stole scenes with her sharp-tongued and unapologetically bold Ouiser Boudreaux. Together, this talented cast captured the enduring bond between women and the mix of laughter and loss that makes this show memorable.

Set entirely within Truvy’s beauty salon, Steel Magnolias follows the lives of six Southern women as they navigate life’s joys and heartbreaks together over the course of just two and a half years. Centered around Shelby’s decision to have a child despite serious health risks, the story unfolds with moments of humor, tenderness, and deep emotional strength. As seasons change, so do the women, revealing the resilience and love that hold them together.

Admittedly, though this particular story does not fully resonate with me, it’s clear that the cast and crew approached the production with dedication and care, and the audience thoroughly enjoyed the show! Their commitment to honoring this beloved play was evident in the thoughtful performances and collaborative spirit on stage. I’d like to give a special salute to Megan McConville, who in her directorial debut, did a fabulous job with this challenging piece. Though she herself has not yet acted on the Richmond Hill stage, her work behind the scenes with many productions proved she has a good eye for details. Well done!

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The Wizard of Oz - By Elizabeth Hulsbrink

By Elizabeth Hulsbrink
Geneseo Current
April 23, 2025
Geneseo High School Performing Arts

The energy in the DePauw Theater was electric as students from Geneseo High School took to the stage for their much-anticipated production of The Wizard of Oz (RSC Version). With months of hard work culminating in a weekend of performances, the cast, orchestra, crew, and directors brought to life a beloved story through impressive vocals, vibrant choreography, and heartfelt acting. From the moment the curtain parted, it was clear that this was more than just a school musical—it was a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and youthful passion for the performing arts.  

The proverbial yellow brick road came to vibrant life on the stage this past weekend, as students delivered this ambitious and heartwarming performance. Based on the beloved 1939 film and adapted by the Royal Shakespeare Company, this version preserves the charm, music, and magic of the original while offering expanded scenes and dialogue tailored for the stage. From the iconic opening notes of "Over the Rainbow" to the triumphant return to Kansas, the production showcased not only the talent of its young cast and crew, but also their dedication to bringing a classic story to life with theatrical flair and emotional depth.

Leading the cast with poise and sincerity was senior Shay Schehl as Dorothy Gale. With a clear, expressive voice and a natural stage presence, she captured Dorothy’s wide-eyed wonder and quiet strength, especially in a heartfelt rendition of “Over the Rainbow.” Junior Perry Farley brought warmth and humor to the role of the Scarecrow, delighting the audience with nimble physical comedy and a genuine charm during “If I Only Had a Brain.” As the Tin Man, senior Logan VanDeWoestyne offered a touching performance, infusing “If I Only Had a Heart” with just the right blend of melancholy and hope. Meanwhile, in his acting debut, junior Landry Possin’s Cowardly Lion was a crowd favorite, earning plenty of laughs and applause with his animated expressions and comedic timing, and, of course, the perfect lion’s growls!

The supporting cast also shone, with senior Clara Huddleston bringing both sparkle and sass to Glinda the Good Witch, while senior Beth Mroz’s Wicked Witch of the West was deliciously menacing, delivering her lines with flair and just the right dose of theatrical villainy. Ensemble members from local elementary schools and seniors Jonathan Freadhoff, as the Emerald City Guard, and Jackson Brumbaugh, as The Wizard of Oz, added richness to every scene, particularly in Munchkinland and the Emerald City, where vibrant costumes and tight choreography added delight and awe.

Visually, the production was a feast for the eyes. The set design cleverly balanced practicality with imagination, transporting the audience from the gray tones of Kansas to the dazzling technicolor world of Oz. The transition—from Dorothy’s farmhouse spinning into the tornado to her arrival in Munchkinland—was especially well-executed, using lighting, the cyclorama, and sound effects to great dramatic effect. A special shoutout to the “flying” people in the tornado! Fabulous touch!!

Costumes played a key role in bringing the fantasy to life. From the glittering pinks of Glinda’s gown to the iconic blue gingham dress worn by Dorothy, each outfit was thoughtfully crafted and true to the film’s spirit. The Wicked Witch’s green makeup and flowing black cloak added just the right level of theatrical menace, while the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Lion all had wonderfully detailed costumes that allowed for both mobility and personality.

Director Joe DePauw deserves special credit for guiding such a large cast with clarity and vision. The pacing never lagged, and every scene felt purposeful and engaging. The choreography, particularly in ensemble numbers like “Ding Dong! The Witch Is Dead” and “Merry Old Land of Oz,” was tight, joyful, and well-rehearsed, showcasing both the students’ energy and the director’s attention to detail.

Geneseo High School’s production of The Wizard of Oz (RSC version) was a charming and skillful tribute to a timeless classic. From strong vocal and orchestral performances to creative staging, the entire cast and crew delivered a show full of heart and imagination. A special shoutout goes to Toto, played by the scene-stealing Bo (owner Amy Roberts, Geneseo), whose calm and adorable presence added extra magic to the performance. It was a production that truly reminded the audience that there’s no place like home.

The Living Stations of the Cross - By Elizabeth Hulsbrink

By Elizabeth Hulsbrink
Geneseo Current
St. Malachy Church
April 13, 2025

In the stillness of a darkened church, not a sound stirred. Then out of that darkness, a single beam of light broke through the silence—signaling the beginning of a journey that would draw every soul present into the final hours of Christ’s life. The Living Stations of the Cross, presented by the members of the St. Malachy Youth Ministry, was not just a performance—it was a profound spiritual experience.  

The [Living] Stations of the Cross are a traditional Catholic devotion that honors the final hours of Jesus Christ’s life, focusing on His path to his crucifixion. Comprised of 14 stations, each one marks a distinct moment of His suffering and death. These stations are often depicted by crosses, artwork, or carvings within churches. However, this particular performance utilized the art of human stop-motion, where actors got into position for each station and maintained complete stillness while readers told the story through scripture, poetry and narration. The movement from one station to the next unfolded in total darkness, heightening the sense of solemnity and deepening the reverent silence.  

Telling the story were Geneseo Middle School students Jocelyn Aguirre, Leila Bries, Ellie Jackson and James Winkleman.  Aguirre, Bries and Jackson also sang El Shaddai and Via Dolorosa during the final stations.  

The program began with Simon of Cyrene- portrayed by Colin Roemer, a freshman at Geneseo High School and devoted member of the St. Malachy Youth Ministry- as he walked solemnly down the aisle, singing “Watch the Lamb”. While he moved down the “road” he was holding the hands of his two young sons, played by Charlie (age 9) and Henry (age 11) Walck, both of Geneseo. Short scenes with Jesus Christ (portrayed by Jonathan Freadhoff, a senior at Geneseo High School), Guard (portrayed by Joey Thoene, a junior at Geneseo High School) Pontius Pilot (portrayed by Liam Osborn, a freshman of Geneseo), and John (portrayed by Vinnie Angelo, young friend of St. Malachy) as well as a crowd of bystanders, helped set the tone that this performance would be both moving and haunting, due to its nature.  

Senior Sophie Oltman's depiction of Mary, mother of Jesus, redirected our attention from the physical torment of Jesus’s struggle to the emotional depth of a mother’s pain. Her a cappella solo, “Still My Little Boy”, held the audience spellbound, with many moved to tears! Veronica (portrayed by sophomore Maddie Oltman), Mary Magdalene (portrayed by Geneseo Middle School 8th grader Reese Schaaf), and weeping woman (Leah Roemer, GHS graduate) all kept close to Mary and Jesus through each station.  

This powerful reenactment of Jesus’s final hours of His earthly life was directed by Victor Angelo, Lance Carroll and Elizabeth Hulsbrink. Stage crew included Claudia Angelo, Isabella Angelo, and Dianna Kunkle. Sound assistance was provided by Butch Bos.

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The Tell-Tale Farce: A Comedy

By Elizabeth Hulsbrink
Geneseo Current
April 3-13, 2025

Picture this… Anywhere, USA, © 1840. A wealthy widow, her niece and granddaughter, her butler and maid, and a ragtag group of male suiters… what do you get? Nonstop laughter!

Richmond Hill Players opens their spring 2025 season with Don Zolidis’ The Tell-Tale Farce: A Comedy, which promises to be a rip-roaring time! New to the Round are Jacob Lund (Henry Whitford), Cali VanZandt (Mary), Shyna DeVoss (Abigail Dowling) and Lena DeLellis (Light & Sound Operator). And making come-back appearances are Derek Bolme (Poe- the real one), Elizabeth Hulsbrink (Helena Dowling), Eric Landuyt (Edgar/ Richard Muffinbridge), Eric Friedman (Rufus Griswold), David Shaffer (Brinsley), and Dana Skiles (Sarah Dowling, Light & Sound Designer), as well as additional crew members Suzanne Rakestraw (Costumes), Jim Skiles and Mike Skiles (Set Builders).  

Making her directing debut, Elizabeth Shaffer, with stage manager, Pat Kelley, found the perfect group of new and seasoned actors to bring you this fabulous farce filled with twists and turns, secret love affairs, deafness, and far too much opium.

Here is the scoop: Comedic gem, The Tell-Tale Farce, is a brilliantly absurd take on Edgar Allan Poe’s iconic tale. This play masterfully blends fast-paced humor, witty dialogue, and over-the-top characters, making it a delightful experience for both performers and audiences.

Zolidis takes the eerie suspense of The Tell-Tale Heart and flips it on its head, infusing it with chaotic misunderstandings and slapstick moments that keep the laughter rolling. The exaggerated characters, from the increasingly frantic narrator to the clueless guests, provide endless comedic opportunities that make this script a perfect choice for high school and community theater productions.

Beyond the humor, The Tell-Tale Farce is a well-structured play that allows for dynamic staging and physical comedy, which challenges the cast while keeping the energy high. The clever wordplay and rapid-fire pacing ensure that audiences remain engaged from start to finish.

If you’re looking for a play that delivers non-stop laughs while paying homage to a literary classic, The Tell-Tale Farce is a must-see! On a side note, I feel like this is one of the best comedic shows to come out of Richmond Hill Players… but with all due respect, I’m a little biased!

Photos from Thespian Fun Night!

The event was held last Sunday, January 19th. There was trivia and live music. Photos by Kara Sanken.

Trivia second place table with (Left to right): Nathan Van Cleve, Jenny Parsons, Sandy and Doug Schehl

Trivia first place table with (left to right): Kelly Evert, Cheryl Schehl, Chris Schehl, and Bill Schehl

Thespian officers (left to right): Sophia Clifton, Beth Mroz, Shay Schehl, Kara Sanken, and Logan VanDeWoestyne.