BWW Reviews: Imaginary Theatre Company Present Intriguing and Entertaining Production of AMELIA EARHART at the MO History Museum

History books, at least when I was growing up, devoted only a sidebar to pioneering aviatrix Amelia Earhart, although today her life has become the subject of many books, movies and television specials that seek to shed light on her mysterious disappearance in 1937 during an attempt to fly around the globe. The Imaginary Theatre Company is presenting Kathryn Schultz Miller's play about this adventurous pilot at the Missouri History Museum (through March 28, 2010), and it's an intriguing show that will gives audiences young and old something to think about.

Miller's script follows Earhart from her early attempts to make history through to her tragic final flight, and it's an entertaining and surprisingly balanced look back on a period in history where our country seemed obsessed with proving themselves as Americans, while remaining staunch isolationists in regards to the impending war that was brewing overseas. Along the way we meet her benefactor and future husband, George Putnam, as well as various characters that aided in, or reported on the events that transpired. It's a compelling story, and the outcome makes for interesting discussion material, since we still don't know what became of Earhart and her plane (as well as her navigator).

Amanda Williford does strong work as Amelia, imbuing the cocky aviator with a winning charm that glosses over any of her shortcomings. Chauncy Thomas is also good as George Putnam, projecting a carefree and confident attitude that masks his concern over his wife's daredevil mentality. Lakeetha Blakeney is solid as a reporter looking into the story as well as Paul Mantz, the pilot who tried to properly train the impetuous and stubborn Earhart as she prepared for her trip around the world in a plane she'd never flown before. Ann Ashby delights as a reporter, and as the radio operator who intercepts Earhart's final transmissions.

Director Jeffrey Matthews keeps this serious minded piece moving along briskly, and though it's heavy in theme, the tone is kept light. Betsy Krausnick contributes the exceptional period costumes that really evoke the era nicely. Scott Loebl's scenic design is simple, but effective, using a curved backdrop of sky and clouds to suggest Earhart's flights. Stage manager Danny Maly does his usual fine work coordinating the backstage efforts and making sure the sound cues come in correctly.

The Imaginary Theatre Company's presentation of Amelia Earhart is an informative, educational piece that manages to entertain and engage. Discussion groups have been particularly spirited given the mysterious nature of Earhart's disappearance, so watch this 45 minute production, and if you're interested, stay and participate in a question and answer session with the cast.