There is a monologue performed by Henry Drummond about the ability of a child to learn the multiplication tables, an idea being a greater monument than a cathedral...it's a beautiful speech, and key to all that follows. The cue to deliver that speech didn't come. He stalled, he delivered the previous line again, paced. I was having heart palpitations, hot flashes and hyperventilating all at once.
I wondered if I was mistaken. I suspect Henry's momentary panic was interpreted by most of the audience as his frustration with the way the trial was proceeding. I witnessed the entire thing, but I now can't remember how he was able to deliver the "child's mind" speech, but deliver it he did. They all went on from there. I believe I held my breath for five minutes. Actors sometimes call that "going up", as in, "into thin air", perhaps.
All along, I intended to mention those that I thought were standout performances, but I loved each and every character. I couldn't possibly name just a few. Casting is an interesting process, and very crucial. "Inherit the Wind" is a good example of an ensemble cast. Every role is significant to the total, and each actor cast in the play brought their own special flavor. I loved them all!!
Joe finding his next part will happen as a natural course of events, but I've given him a few days off for good behavior. I want to thank him for giving us access and letting us all in on his adventure.
Thanks, Joe, for all of it.
