As a direct descendant of the Mayflower, Lake Orion resident Linda (Doten) Romanowski feels a special kinship with the brave souls who left England for the New World to escape religious persecution in 1620.
Romanowski’s ancestor, Edward Doten, was one of the original signers of the Mayflower Compact, and as such represents the spirit and courage of some of our nation’s earliest settlers.
To honor her grandfather and his fellow Pilgrims, Romanowski orchestrated a Thanksgiving-related play to be presented Sunday, Nov. 12 at 3 p.m. at the First Congregational Church in Clarkston.
Our Forefathers? Story, directed by Romanowski, will be narrated, while historical scenes are acted out by other members of the church. The play includes the application of various visual media, songs from the cast and vocal soloist, Pat Woodward, who has donated her talent to the program.
The actors range in age from 3-year-old Sydney Maddox of Lake Orion, to 74-year-old Cliff Brackett, narrator of the three-act play.
Besides little Sydney and Brackett, the cast includes: Martha Paskas, Brett Romanowski, Todd Masters, Brian Davis, Lydia Sherwood, Lauren Davis, Becca Hanna, Colin Moran, Nathan Wilson, Emily Shepard, James Anderson, Tyler Meyer, Pam Andrews, Linda Atkins, Star Steward, Ron Hensley, Jeff and Sue Davis and the Rev. Marty Hall.
The director hopes the play gives attendees a greater appreciation for the challenges and struggles faced by the early settlers.
‘I think my ancestor would be proud to know that his descendant worked to bring the story of the Pilgrims to life on stage,? says Romanowski. ‘History is interesting in itself, but to learn that he signed the document and was part of the Puritan movement inspired me to get involved with this play.?
Romanowski said she and the actors have worked diligently to deliver the play’s message that the practice of religious freedom should be valued, celebrated and never taken for granted.
‘This is an educational play about a serious subject, but in contains elements of humor,? she said. ‘It’s not stiff or uppity — it’s a fun play.?
She added that Congregationalists will be particularly interested in attending, because the origin of the church will be given an historically accurate portrayal.
‘The play shows how it all began and how our freedom of religion has blossomed,? said Romanowski.
Everyone is invited to attend Our Forefathers? Story, which is free to the public. Attendees may donate a free-will offering to support the church and play.
The First Congregational Church is at 5449 Clarkston Rd. in Clarkston.
Call 248-394-0200 for information.