Classic play explores topic of religion versus evolution

Special to the Zanesville Times Recorder
·2 min read
Thomas Hoover and George Patterson in a courtroom scene from "Inherit the Wind" being presented at the Renner Theater.
Thomas Hoover and George Patterson in a courtroom scene from "Inherit the Wind" being presented at the Renner Theater.

It is a sweltering summer day in 1925. Folks are gathering from miles around in hopes of attending one of the most talked about events in the state – a teacher, Bertram Cates, is on trial for presenting his class scientific considerations in a town firmly enveloped in biblical beliefs. The controversy was deafening. The debate of science and religion reached the ears of notable scholars and the press alike. Reporter E.K. Hornbeck had his hooks in every heated moment and debate – and thrived on it.

The Zane Trace Players will bring this drama to life as it presents "Inherit the Wind" this weekend and next weekend.

Lee Hoover, Kerby Staker and George Patterson in a scene from "Inherit the Wind" at the Renner Theater.
Lee Hoover, Kerby Staker and George Patterson in a scene from "Inherit the Wind" at the Renner Theater.

The show continues as Henry Drummond defends Cates. Crafty in wit and up for a rousing challenge, he enters the town through the echoes of debate and passionate beliefs. The town’s reaction to his participation in this event was as if the devil himself sat down to the dinner table. Prosecuting attorney, Matthew Harrison Brady was primed for the challenge too. Noted scholar on the Bible, he is more than ready to send this interloper packing. Most in the town are behind him, rallied by the celebrated Rev. Jeremiah Brown.

The twists and turns in this production explore the passions and the pursuits of thought and beliefs.

Rev. Brown’s daughter, Rachel loves Cates. In seeking her father's council, Rachel unwittingly finds herself in the midst of controversy. Elijah’s evangelical fire adds to the flames. From the judge, store owner Mr. Goodfellow to the spirited gossips in town, this cast boasts an uncanny reflection to today’s modern world.

Cast members include Thomas Hoover, Scott Robison, George Patterson, Lee Hoover, Jeff Howard, Dyna Watiker, Colin Dygert, Kerby Staker, David Wickham, Jan Kiikka, Margi Wysong, Bonnie Seals, Mollie Winland and Kelly Patterson.

Bonnie Seals, Jan Kiikka, Margi Wysong, Jeff Howard, Jim Hoskinson and Colin Dygert in a scene from "Inherit the Wind."
Bonnie Seals, Jan Kiikka, Margi Wysong, Jeff Howard, Jim Hoskinson and Colin Dygert in a scene from "Inherit the Wind."

Director Rich Tolliver said the play is based on the infamous Scopes trial from 1925 and it's still a fascinating topic of discussion today.

"Our goal in doing this particular production isn’t to sway the way people think. It is simply to make people think, to discuss and to listen while someone else expresses their point of view.”

Performances are scheduled for at 8 p.m. June 9, 10, 16 and 17 and 2:30 p.m. June 11 and 18 at the Renner Theater, 148 N. Seventh St. Make reservations online at therenner.org. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, $10 for students and $5 for children.

Auditions for "Oklahoma" will be held 7 p.m. July 23 and 24 at the theater. The director is Rich Tolliver with Susan Davis as musical director.

Information and photos provided by the Zane Trace Players.

This article originally appeared on Zanesville Times Recorder: Classic play explores topic of religion versus evolution