Simply do not wait to see "Waiting for MacArthur"

Review by Lin McNulty

Sandy Thompson owns the stage in Actors Theater of Orcas Island production of Waiting for MacArthur! And she has a talented, radiant supporting cast which is to die for. To die for — a phrase we bandy about so lightly. Yet, this character was, in fact, serving — and possibly dying for — her country.

Thompson brilliantly portrays Annie Lou, a young, naïve woman from Wisconsin as she joins the Army at the beginning of WWII. Her excitement and gung ho attitude evolves as the reality of being assigned to the remote, indefensible Corregidor in the Phillipines becomes all too apparent. Thompson seamlessly makes the transition as Annie Lou endures the rigors and heartbreak of tending to the wounded, underground in a makeshift hospital.

This well-scripted story, written by Paullette MacDougal from Austin, Texas unfolds in letters exchanged between Annie Lou and her mother (portrayed by Louise Carnachan), her best friend Rosalie (portrayed by Aaimee Johnson), and her former teacher Margaret (portrayed by Patty Monaco). Annie Lou attempts to protect her mother, becomes estranged from her friend, and builds an unexpected bond with her teacher in the flow of letters across the Pacific Ocean.

This is not an easy account, not many war stories are. Yet, the actors provide a compelling and irresistible performance. Each character is complex, likeable, and authentic — each and every portrayal ultimately believable.

Great period hairstyles by Carol Whitbeck and spot-on costuming choices by the cast easily assist in the transportation back to the 1940s.

Doug Bechtel’s directorial skills shine in this presentation. With a short rehearsal schedule, this team pulled off a winner.

Playwright Paullette MacDougal will be visiting Orcas on closing night and will, of course, see the play. She will be mightily impressed!

The play continues at The Grange on Saturday June 20, Friday June 26, Saturday June 27, and Sunday June 28 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the door or in advance at Darvills Bookstore.