ENCOMPASS MAINSTAGE:
THE TENDER LAND

Music by Aaron Copland Libretto by Horace Everette
Directed by Nancy Rhodes Conducted by Norman Carey

“This group, dedicated to the promotion of American lyric theatre through ensemble performance, put on a highly praised version of Virgil Thomson’s The Mother of Us All last season; it has done equally well in its second venture… integrated, convincing acting. Nancy Rhodes’ direction was at all points remarkably sensitive.” - Raymond Ericson, The New York Times, 1977

“The Encompass Music Theatre’s opera performances have been rare theatrical experiences… Aaron Copland’s The Tender Land… were staged in past seasons with unusual distinction by Miss Rhodes.” - Robert Jones, CUE

In the American heartland during the Great Depression, the provincial existence of a rural farming family hinges upon the high school graduation of the eldest daughter, Laurie Moss. However, on the eve of her graduation, Laurie finds herself questioning her place in the world and wondering what kind of life she could lead if she were to leave the farm. Her restlessness is fueled by two drifters, Top and Martin, who are hired to help with the harvest.

While Ma and Grandpa Moss are suspicious of the strangers, Laurie is captivated by their vivid tales of travel, and she and Martin quickly fall in love, culminating in a tender kiss at Laurie’s graduation party. Grandpa Moss, furious, banishes the two men, leading Martin and Laurie to make plans to elope, but Martin quickly realizes that this would cause trouble for all involved, and reluctantly sneaks away before daybreak. Heartbroken, Laurie realizes that, though now alone, it is still time for her to go. She bids farewell to the farm and sets off into the unknown, leaving her weeping family to completely reassess their hopes, dreams, and plans for the future. A vivid portrait of the rural midwest, The Tender Land is painted richly with Copland’s quintessentially American harmonies and tells a beautiful and simple story of a young woman’s coming of age.

CAST IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER
Top (Scott Bodie)
Ma (Lisa Ann Cunningham)
Mrs. Jenks (Nadine Olivia Earl)
Cousin Billy (James Furlong)
Mr. Jenks (Jay Aubrey Jones)
Martin (H. Edward Lardaro)
Grandpa (Peter J. Ludwig)
Laurie Moss (Valerie Pell)
Alice Johnson (Anne Collins)
Mrs. Splinters (Jennifer Herring)
Beth Moss (Joan Shangold)
Mr. Splinters (Craig Sturgis)
Preacher (Michael Sherman)

Score: Aaron Copland
Libretto: Horace Everette
Musical Director: Norman Carey
Settings: Harry Silverglat
Lights: David Kissel
Costumes: Kenneth M. Yount
Choreography: Marilyn Klaus
Assistant Musical Directors: John Klingberg, Rosetta Senkus
Stage Manager: Jan Crean
Produced by Roger Cunningham

STAFF FOR THE ENCOMPASS THEATRE
Technical Director: Daniel Gilloon
Electrician: Geraldine Kendrick
Box Office Manager: Emily Kirby
Graphics: Jeralyn Lewandowski
Banner: Anders Holmquist
Assistant to the Producer: James C. Furlong

Lighting Equipment through Bash Stage Lighting and Big Apple Lighting. Pianos through Lincoln Piano. Food through Vesuvio’s of 48th Street and TiPat Deli Corp. at 1473 Third Avenue. Bridle through Miller’s, 24th St.

With special thanks to The Roundabout Theatre Stage One, Judy Renacea, Richard Tenewitz, Eloise Meyer, Stephanie Tisheff, and The Carre Company. Costumes from The Costume Collection. In cooperation with The Cultural Council Foundation and The Theatre Development Fund.