ELTC Presents an ASL Performance

CAPE MAY – On July 12 at 8:30 p.m., there will be an American Sign Language Interpretation of “Lost on the Natchez Trace” produced by the award-winning Equity professional East Lynne Theater Company.
Written by Jan Buttram, artistic director of Abingdon Theatre Company in New York City, “Lost on the Natchez Trace” is directed by ELTC’s artistic director, Gayle Stahlhuth, with Leon Morgan, Tom Byrn, and Stephanie Garrett in the cast. Stahlhuth selected this play to open ELTC’s mainstage season in Cape May not only because it’s compelling, but also because this year marks the 150th anniversary of America’s Emancipation Proclamation. The plot revolves around a wounded slave auctioneer in 1825 who is stranded in a wasteland. His yells for help are heard by a runaway slave.
Since the early 1990’s, ELTC has offered ASL performances for at least one night for each of three mainstage productions yearly. The theatrical ASL interpreters are Kathy Filippo and Gina Lanza, who have performed many times for ELTC. The process involves them seeing the production at least once, plus going over the script several times to figure out who will interpret which roles, and in many cases, come up with signage for unusual names and words.
Tickets are $30 general admission; $25 for seniors and those with disabilities and their support companions; and $15 for full-time students. Children ages 12 and under are always free. For “Lost on the Natchez Trace,” it is suggested that those attending have an understanding of slavery in this country, and may not be appropriate for most under the age of 13.
ELTC performs at The First Presbyterian Church, 500 Hughes St., Cape May, where the company is in residence. “Lost on the Natchez Trace” runs Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. through July 20, except no performance on July 4 and an added performance on July 7. For information and reservations, call 609-884-5898 or visit www.eastlynnetheater.org.