The following is a Loudoun Times-Mirror review written March 12, 1997 of the March 7 performance of The Waterford Girls: ALL FOR THE UNION in Confederate Virginia!
Theater in Review - Patti H. Snodgrass
McMath's 'Waterford Girls' Commands Attention -
Full of genuine warmth and humor, history comes to life - in art - with the production of "The Waterford Girls: All for the Union," being performed at the Blue Ridge Middle School.
The original script, by Loudoun's own Meredith Bean McMath, breathes new life into the historical stories of some young women living in Waterford who cleverly managed to revel in life and endure the personal hardships of the Civil War.
Charm abounds in this theatrical evening. More like a series of vignettes than a drama, the small moments that comprise the action come to life as the best memories will in anyone's life. They are the recollections of dramatic events, romantic interludes and noble humanity, some of them true.
Like a documentary, the show depicts the reality of life in a particular place at a particular time. Like the best entertainment, it features characters who appeal to the audience.
The production's charm and humor Friday captured the imaginations of children as well as adults.
As Lida Dutton, Elizabeth Nichols rules the stage, but Meghann Godfrey as Lizzie Dutton and Mary Price as Maggie Loden make strong showings. Rodney Sauter as Confederate Lt. John Milbrowe and Mark Zielke as Union Lt. J. William Hutchinson turn in dashing and memorable performances that, more than a century later, make it difficult to choose sides.
The Growing Stage makes use of local talent, which flourishes in a production far more professional than its school house stage might indicate. Even with microphones, it is difficult to hear some of the lesser characters, but the story is easy to follow, and the show's pace is just right.
A cast filled with friends and neighbors is sure to entertain local audience members, but the remarkable story that unfolds is well worth the attention of audiences from afar.