Marjorie Stonemen Douglas dramatic presentation at the Elks Feb. 5
During a “high tea” at the Elks Lodge Feb. 5, attendees will be treated to a visit from legendary author, Marjory Stonemen Douglas who will be portrayed by dramatist, Janina Birtolo.
Douglas is known for her novel, “River of Grass” and the portrayal should be of interest to all residents of South Florida. Douglas was an avid defender of the Everglades, the opening line in River of Grass states, “There are no other Everglades in the world. They are, they have always been, one of the unique regions of the earth; remote, never wholly known. Nothing anywhere else is like them…” Published in 1947. River of Grass, is viewed by environmentalists as an important work which aided in the establishment of the Everglades National Park. Douglas was presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1993 by President Bill Clinton. This is the highest honor given to an American citizen. Having lived an incredible 108 years, later, after her death in 1998, Douglas was inducted into the National Wildlife Federation Hall of Fame in 1999 and the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 2000.
As part of her research into the lives of some of America’s most interesting and influential women, Birtolo has provided portrayals of such legendary greats as Amilia Earhart, Sarah Bernhardt, Mary Todd Lincoln and Gertrude Bell. In full costume, her show “Voice of the Everglades” teaches the history of the importance of caring for important ecosystems that give us life. After having done extensive research for her portrayal of Marjory Douglas, Birtolo draws upon what she has learned to give a believable presentation and a true inside look at the woman with respect to not only her writings, but her passions about the Everglades and the environment which charts the remarkable life of Douglas and incorporates her wry and singular sense of humor.
Noted for her performances and one-women plays, Birtolo has earned the 2006 Enny Award presented by E Magazine for her show “Most Affectionate Daughter” which tells the story of a woman named Maria who teaches that religion and science need not be at odds.
Building a career focused on portraying history making women, Birtolo takes her audiences into the life and times of these legendary people. Most of her act is whimsical and humorous but often contains a somber and thought provoking element as well.
With each of her performances, Janina brings her characters to life and draws you into the story,” said Ladies of the Elks member, Chris Weiderhold. “I have been told that the book, River of Grass, can be a difficult read so I am sure Janina’s live performance will be much more entertaining, and I am really looking forward to it.”
This High Tea and performance are open to the public will all proceeds benefitting island charities.
The High Tea and performance by Janina Birtolo will take place at the Elks Lodge at the island center on Thursday, Feb. 5 beginning at 11 a.m. The price of tickets will be $15 and to reserve your tickets, call Anne Dayman at 283-1832, Pat Bernhart at 283-4042 or Chris Weiderhold at 283-4036.