Appalachian Ebeneezer is the story of a man’s redemption within his community and is best served by the presence of a sizeable multi-generational group onstage. It’s a perfect opportunity to integrate interns, students, and volunteers, and/or to partner with a children’s theatre. Band members (minimum 2/maximum 4) can also double in some brief roles and one major one (Loomis, the storyteller). A really good dancer is desirable for one of the ghosts. This breakdown addresses the 29 speaking roles in the play (notes on possible doubles available with the script):

2-4 band members — some playing roles
7 adult actors
3 interns/students
4 child actors

Other Production Considerations

The surrounding presence of the natural world (trees, birds, wind, wilderness, streams) is a core element. Creativity with sound, projections, puppets, and set design will be important in order to evoke the beauty and mystery of the Appalachian mountains.

Because of the setting, human structures are humble and can be constructed from barn siding and/or other recycled wood with the addition of minimal furniture. Resale shops can provide already constructed garments for many characters (with the exception of the ghosts). Good, supportive sound design is required.

(Photos by Lewis Hine for the Tennessee Valley Authority, 1933.)