Great Wall Story | Denver Center Theatre Company

Cast of "Great Wall Story": John Hutton, Mike Hartman, Jacob Knoll, Larry Paulson, Christopher Kelly, Merritt Janson & Gabe Koskinen-Sansone

If you are in Denver this month, come check out the world premiere of "Great Wall Story" (through April 22) presented by Denver Center Theatre Company in the Ricketson Theatre at the Denver Center for Performing Arts.

Written by award winning contemporary NY playwright, Lloyd Suh, this fast-paced, highly entertaining play is based on the true story of a newspaper hoax which was hatched by three newspapermen on a sleepy night in Denver in 1899.  Their tale had a ripple effect which reached across the globe, and the truth was only actually uncovered several decades later.  The story is beautifully told by a terrific ensemble cast and is at once hilarious, provocative and moving.

For anyone who is interested in truth and ethics in journalism, this story is as profoundly relevant today as ever.

 

Art Manke directs the incredibly talented cast of Great Wall Story which includes: Christopher Kelly, Mike Hartman, Jacob Knoll, John Hutton, Merritt Janson, Larry Paulsen and Gabe Koskinen-Sansone.  Gorgeous layered scenic design by Lisa M. Orzolek, and beautiful period costume design by Angela Balogh Calin.

On a personal note, nothing can quite explain how rewarding -- and FUN -- it has been to watch my son fall desperately in love with the art of theatre.  He plays reporter Jack Tournay's son, Charlie -- a soulful touchstone in the story, living out the consequence of the lies of his father with his own struggle to maintain hope in difficult times. Gabe's experience is instilling in him passion, confidence, dedication, a great work ethic -- and has introduced him to a family of truly talented, creative and wonderful people.

All Photos © Jennifer M. Koskinen