Star Mamie Parris (center), who wowed the MMT audience, takes a deserved bow.

'Bright Star' MMT's Best in Quite a While

I have been accused of overpraising theatrical productions upon occasion, but I doubt that will happen as regards Mill Mountain Theatre's current play, "Bright Star," co-written by comedian Steve Martin (with Edie Brickell).

 This is a cultural bubble bath that cleanses completely. It has the stars (especially New York stage veteran Mamie Parris in the lead), the production team, the director, Christiansburg native James Moye, another New York veteran, choreographer Nick Kepley, an Asheville native, scenic designer Jimmy Ray Ward and many more to make this show almost singular in its depth and breadth of quality.

This story, set in and around Asheville, N.C. (my hometown), in 1923 and 1946 (my birth year) had a special, personal impact on me because of so many similarities to my own life. It was an emotional evening, especially sitting there with my grandgirl, Mac, bursting to tell her my story. But there is so much more to "Bright Star" without the personal attraction. Though I have never been a fan of Steve Martin's theatre work (he's a great comedian and actor), this story, based on true events, is gripping.

Miss Parris all but brings down the house with her show-stopping final song and carries a strong cast with her. The quality extends throughout those on stage and those behind the scenes. I've always had the impression that when the play is great, the staff works at its top rung to bring that out on stage. It certainly happens with "Bright Star."

The story is a powerful drama, but it mixes comedy, music and dance and never seems to be as long as its 2.5-hour run time suggests. It tells the tale of a young country girl who becomes pregnant in 1923 and is not married, though she intends to wed her lover. That all falls to pieces when the young man's father removes the baby and catastrophe ensues.

I won't go further in order to preserve the surprises, but rest assured, this one is worth your time and your investment. It is MMT at its best.

For tickets, call the box office at 540-342-5740. They cost $26.50-$48.50.