Patty Duke on Directing MIRACLE WORKER in Spokane

Patty Duke, who starred in the Broadway production of THE MIRACLE WORKER will direct the show at Interplayers Theatre, in Spokane, Washington. The production will run May 5-22. In a recent interview with the Spokesman, Duke chatted about her involvement with the new production.

On ending her MIRACLE WORKER experience the first time around, Duke revealed: "I was heartbroken, absolutely heartbroken. In fact, I'll tell you a little secret. There is a shot of my face when a chick is being born in my hand. My face and eyes are puffy and red because I had been sobbing for hours."

She added, "This is Spokane's production. This is to exhibit both the power of this play and also these actors, who could work anywhere, in a heartbeat. The Northwest should be so proud to produce these kind of skilled professionals." 

To read the full article, click here.

Duke's first major starring role was playing Helen Keller (with Anne Bancroft as Annie Sullivan) in the Broadway play The Miracle Worker, which ran for nearly two years (October, 1959 - July, 1961). Midway through the production-run, her name was placed above the title on the marquee. The play was subsequently made into a 1962 film, for which Duke received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. At 16, Duke was the youngest person at that time to receive an Academy Award in a competitive category.

The mission of Spokane Interplayers Ensemble is to provide dynamic and innovative professional theatre to Spokane and the Inland Northwest. By developing and nurturing our regional talent base, raising the creative standards for regional theatrical production and expanding our artistic programming, Spokane Interplayers Ensemble strengthens its position as a significant Inland Northwest arts institution with local, regional and national impact.

In 1980, Spokane Interplayers Ensemble was founded by professional actors Robert and Joan Welch as the Inland Northwest's first resident professional theatre. It is a traditionally structured, not-for-profit theatre, with a professional staff and governed by a community-based board of directors. In its 30-year history the theatre has grown to become a recognized artistic institution of influence and impact.

Interplayers is a major contributor to the region's cultural quality of life, and is pivotal to the economic revitalization of downtown Spokane. The theatre works diligently to provide challenging, diverse and inspiring productions.

 

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