By Clare O’Connor, Tom Desilets Memorial Intern 2017
The Summertime on the Centre Common series, put on by the Framingham History Center and sponsored by Eastern Bank, has a great variety of programs for various ages to enjoy. Last week’s performance broke the mold a bit, as Judith Kalaora, founder of History at Play, masterfully told the story of Deborah Sampson – Massachusetts State Heroine and the first professional female soldier. Before attending this program, I recalled learning about Sampson at some point during my education and associated her name with “Mulan.” I wasn’t totally wrong (Judith, in character as Sampson, made mention of Mulan during the show) but I quickly learned there was so much I did not know.
While signing in people on the downstairs level of Village Hall, I heard the fife and drum music playing upstairs and thought to myself “this is going to be so awesome”! The program was intended for children ages eight years and older, and there were some present but for the most part, the performance was attended by adults. As I watched, I felt like I was experiencing two different shows at once. There was Judith; who’s acting, period clothing, props and script were superb. Then there was Deborah; who’s incredible story of triumph and hardship seemed to be a show of its own. Deborah Sampson, born in 1760 in Plympton, MA, began work as a seamstress at the age of five years old. After growing up in poverty and taking various jobs, she ultimately enlisted in the Continental Army during the American Revolution. Using her deceased brothers name, she hid any trace of her womanhood and fought for liberty for a year and a half before being honorably discharged. I found myself holding my breathe in anticipation throughout the performance, a testament to both Judith’s amazing acting and character portrayal, as well as the sheer impact of Deborah’s story.
I remember in the fourth grade, my class had to do a living wax museum project for which we had to write a script, wear a costume, and portray someone from the past. I chose “the unsinkable” Molly Brown (though admittedly I think this was because of my desire to wear high heels, lipstick and costume jewelry as opposed to a true appreciation of Brown’s legacy) and to this day that project sticks out in my mind as one of the most effective learning experiences I ever had. So for me, living histories are really second to none, and Judith’s performance was no exception! She engaged the audience and brought some kids up to perform with her, so I am sure they will remember Deborah Sampson’s name. The story and the performance came together in a way that had everyone captivated – the children in attendance were regularly on the edge of their seats. Textbooks have their place, but nothing beats a living history that completely acquaints you with an era long gone, and gets you so involved with the historical figures that are coming to life right in front of you.
Judith Kalaora does various other productions through History at Play, and there is still one more Summertime on the Common program coming up, so make sure you check it out!