River Hills Costume Designer in Acacia Theatre’s "Anne of Green Gables"

Photo: Don Devona and Alison Pogorelc in "Anne of Green Gables."

Denise Elfe, resident of River Hills, is co-costume designer for “Anne of Green Gables,” L.M. Montgomery's timeless classic. Marie Wilke is collaborating with her in this production. Anne Shirley’s story comes to life in this new award-winning musical, with book and lyrics book by Gretchen Cryer and music by Nancy Ford. Follow the adventures of a wildly
independent orphan with fiery red hair and a temper to match.

Elfe has eagerly awaited the chance to be involved in a production of “Anne of Green Gables.” “I have read the entire series of Anne books, seven in all. I fell in love with the PBS series with Megan Follows and Colleen Dewhurst,” says Denise. “When I saw a musical version years ago, I asked if we could do it and finally we are!”

Anne Shirley, the main character becomes the new girl in town, with a new family, friends, school and hopefully, a new home forever. Elfe says, “As a military brat, I can identify with her feeling new, and having the need to create an interesting sense of self to project to her new public, which she does with so many endearing and comical feats. Within her is the grace to accept all those around her as being good - until she finds out otherwise and must set up a wall of protection around her, especially when it comes to Gilbert Blythe! Her acts of contrition and self-giving are commendable, and we would all love to have a friend as compassionate and memorable as Anne.”

According to Elfe, “This production hits all the highlights of the book, with extra elements which an abridged version can do to bring out the essence and sincerity that Ms. Montgomery brings to her story. All the sweetness and the bitter sweetness is brought out in this version of the story in musical play form. Being a musical, it lightens the story line and carries it along to perhaps encourage a younger reader to delve into the seven books about Anne!”

She expects that audiences will enjoy the play for a number of reasons. “It is a good introduction to the books for a younger or older reader. It may be like one of those summer reads you never got to as a kid,” says Elfe. “I was well over 50 before I discovered the wonderful story.”

All performances will be given in Concordia University Wisconsin’s Todd Wehr Auditorium, 12800 North Lake Shore Drive in Mequon, Wis.

Anne Shirley, a passionately self-determined child, is mistakenly sent to live with a plainspoken farmer and his spinster sister, who thought they were adopting a boy. She wins them and all of Prince Edward Island over with her irrepressible spirit and imagination. Experience this poignant story about love, abundant grace, home and family.

Performances on Friday, July 13, 2012 at 8pm, Saturday, July 14, 2012 at 8pm, Sunday, July 15, 2012 at 3pm, Thursday, July 19, 2012 at 8pm, Friday, July 20, 2012 at 8pm, Saturday, July 21, 2012 at 4pm and 8pm, and Sunday, July 22, 2012 at 3pm.

Performance Schedule and Ticket Information
Tickets will be available by calling (414) 744-5995 or at www.acaciatheatre.com.
Prices - Single ticket cost is $16; senior, student, clergy ticket cost is $13.

About Acacia Theatre Company
Founded in 1980, Acacia Theatre Company is an independent, non-profit, interdenominational group of dramatic artists who share a common desire to integrate art and
faith by presenting theatre from a Judeo-Christian worldview. Through uplifting, quality entertainment, Acacia provides occasion for thanksgiving, growth and enjoyment, and the opportunity for Christians and non-Christians to consider their lives in relation to God. More information is available at www.acaciatheatre.com