A Visit to Minneapolis

September 28, 2010

On a recent trip to Minneapolis, MN, I had the opportunity to revisit a favorite author, Louise Erdrich. The author's book store, Birchbark Books, is located near the downtown area. There, I purchased an autographed copy of Erdrich's most recent novel, Shadow Tag.

Later that evening, I attended a live production of The Master Butchers Singing Club at the Guthrie Theater. The novel was adapted for the stage by the Pulitzer Prize-winning dramatist Marsha Norman.

The play closely followed the storyline with the use of a character as narrator. The time frame setting was between the two World Wars. Music and humor were subtle additions to the play. They only enhanced the stage production with strong actors who could also sing when called upon.

It is my hope that the play will come to Kansas City to the Missouri Repertory Theatre. It would be perfect for the Copaken Stage.

But in the meantime, check out this great read, The Master Butchers Singing Club.

Mary M.
Raytown Branch