Classes invited to rehearsal of play about Margaret Chase Smith

LEWISTON — Out of the Box Theater invites high-school teachers of American history and English and their students to the dress rehearsal of its production of "Mrs. Smith Goes to Washington.

 

The first-person account, written in a warm, personal style by Linda Britt, has Margaret Chase Smith, the beloved U.S. senator from Skowhegan, sharing her public and private life. Sally Jones of Norway is featured in the one-woman play directed by Britt.

 

The production highlights Mrs. Smith's well known "Declaration of Conscience" speech denouncing the excesses of Sen. Joseph McCarthy's anti-Communist crusade. That speech delivered on the Senate floor on June 1, 1950, brought Smith national attention and demonstrated her courage and independence, as well as her condemnation of bigotry.

 

Admission is free, but seating is limited to 50. Reservations are necessary to accommodate those wishing to attend the rehearsal at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 16, at DownStage at L/A Arts, Number 5 Canal St. Alley, just off Pine Street. Fore reservations, call 782-7228 or visit www.laarts.org.