Returning to the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts tonight is Hal Holbrook with his production of “Mark Twain Tonight.”
The show is a dramatic retelling of Mark Twain’s books through the recitations of one man. Holbrook has been performing this show for over 60 years and was the original performer when the show was on Broadway in 1966.
“It’s an extraordinarily iconic theater piece,” said Norman Easterbrook, Ford Center director.
Holbrook first performed at the university in 1962 and again in a sold-out show in 2006. Easterbrook said Holbrook did so well he had to invite him back.
“This performance is almost a to-the-date anniversary of his performance in 1962,” Easterbrook said. According to Easterbrook, the original performance happened in Fulton Chapel, but he is pleased to have Tony-winner Holbrook perform on the Ford Center stage, especially due to the “historical and contemporary” nature of the show.
“My hope would be for students to take away a real understanding and sense of inspiration from watching a tremendous actor do this role on our stage,” Easterbrook said. “I want them to take away an understanding of how the stories written by Mark Twain relate to today.”
Kate Meacham, Ford Center marketing director, said something similar about the reaction she hopes students will have.
“Holbrook is an amazing legend and part of theater history,” Meacham said. “The show won the Tony Award when it was on Broadway.”
She said although many Broadway tours visit the Ford Center, it is uncommon for the touring cast to be the original cast.
“It’s a really special thing to be able to see up close and in a real life setting,” Meacham said.
Although Meacham has not personally seen the show, she said she is excited to have the opportunity this year, and that students should not be intimidated by the high prices posted online.
“We have an arrangement with Holbrook to offer an unlimited number of student tickets,” she said.
Students can buy tickets for mezzanine and balcony seating for $10 and orchestra seating for $15.
“I am looking forward to it,” Meacham said. “I like Mark Twain, and I’ve always liked Hal Holbrook. I think it’s exciting to see a Tony winning performer do his winning performance. I’ve never heard of anyone who didn’t say it was a wonderful show.”
