BCP gives play over theater

Uplifting drama reveals redemptive powers of theater, human spirit

In 1787, the first English convicts arrived at the penal colony in Botany Bay, Australia. Most would never see England again.

"Our Country's Good," tells the story of an idealistic young lieutenant and his efforts to rehabilitate the convicts by putting on a play.

Shows are March 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29 at 7:30 p.m., and March 22 at 2 p.m. at the new BCP theater at 4155 Laurel.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors and students.

Director Keith Cockrell said "Our Country's Good" is an uplifting story that works on many levels.

Many of the officers think the play will erode discipline in the colony, he said, and many of the convicts come to the production with their own agendas, such as getting out of work for a while. But through it all, Lieutenant Clark hangs onto his belief that theater can be a force for good.

In putting on a play, the convicts - and the audience - learn the virtues of compassion, cooperation, and creativity.

Most of the actors play multiple parts, which are not limited by gender. This production will be presented "in the round," and the audience members surround the actors.

This production has moments of humor and moments of high tension, Cockrell said. But most of all, it is a story of the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity - and the how theater has the power to transform us all, both audience and players.

Author Timberlake Wertenbaker created her characters from composites of real people gleaned from the journals of members of the First Fleet.

For reservations, visit www.beaumontcommunityplayers. com or call 409- 833-4664.