In 1955, Emma Gatewood told her son she was going for a walk. She wasn’t lying, but there was a little — or rather, a lot — more to the story.

On the surface, The Public Theater’s New England premiere of “Grandma Gatewood Took a Walk,” written by Catherine Bush, seems pretty straightforward: a 67-year-old grandmother decides to hike the Appalachian Trail and, in doing so, becomes the first woman thru-hiker.

That premise alone would make for a fantastic story. But Emma Gatewood’s story goes far beyond the tale of an epic hike. It’s a story of survival, abuse, resilience, and the determination to do that “one big thing.”

Directed by Public Theatre Artistic Director Janet Mitchko and brilliantly performed by Brigid Cleary and Robert Pescovitz, Emma’s story comes vividly to life.

The set is simple and understated, consisting of platforms representing the mountains and a scenic backdrop. With few props, the play relies heavily on the actors’ skill to fully engage the audience — and they do not disappoint.

The story shifts seamlessly between the hike itself and the many life events leading up to it. Thanks to her outstanding talent, Brigid Cleary transforms effortlessly from a 67-year-old hiker to a young child speaking with her father, to a young woman falling in love, and finally to a wife and mother struggling simply to survive. Her ability to capture the emotions and nuances of each stage of Emma’s life is astounding. Every portrayal feels poignant, raw, and deeply real.

The other actor on stage is Robert Pescovitz, who portrays every other character in Emma’s life. He is Emma’s troubled yet loving father, constantly reminding her to “pick up her feet.” He is her charming and sweet beau who sweeps her off her feet, only to later reveal his darker nature. He also takes on the roles of Emma’s son, a park ranger, a gruff farmer, and even several news reporters.

Pescovitz skillfully adjusts his demeanor, voice, tone, and body language so completely that, while the audience is always aware they are watching the same actor, each character feels vivid, distinct, and entirely real.

The story of Emma Greenwood is certainly inspiring. She set out on her journey wearing a pair of Keds sneakers, carrying a worn backpack, a shower curtain to protect her from the rain, a raincoat and a first aid kit. She frequently slept beneath the open sky, stayed in trail shelters whenever possible, and depended on the generosity of strangers for meals and occasional lodging. Her diet was made up of whatever she could gather or buy along the journey, including nuts, berries, canned food and what was offered to her by the kindness of strangers.

In the end, “Grandma Gatewood Took a Walk” is far more than the story of a hike. It is the story of a woman reclaiming herself after a lifetime of hardship and proving that courage and determination do not fade with age. 

In fact, this story demonstrates quite the opposite. Through powerful performances, thoughtful direction, and deeply human storytelling, the production reminds us that even the most ordinary-looking person may carry an extraordinary story within them.

Emma Gatewood’s journey across the Appalachian Trail is inspiring not simply because she completed it, but because she dared to begin it at all.

Upcoming performances are scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 3 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $35 for adults, $30 each for groups of 10 or more, and $15 for ages 13-18.

Performances may be sold out. For more information or tickets call 207-782-3200 or go to thepublictheatre.org. The Public Theatre is at 31 Maple St. in Lewiston.