The actors interacted with the props and set, sometimes in violent ways, but the stage held strong under the abuse. The few set changes were smooth and quick, the lovely sunset of lights reflected beautifully onto the cyclorama, and real food and water were used on the plates and in the Keller's famous water pump. The show's technical elements strengthened the performance, from a beautiful and sturdy permanent set to creative sound design. His dry wit and well-delivered sarcasm had the audience rolling in their seats on more than one occasion. Another standout performance was Josh Thomas as James Keller. Contrasted with the gruff sternness of her husband (Josh Noah), the two played the perfect foil couple. This was clear with the classic Southern poise and charm of Rebecca Williamson's Kate Keller. The supporting characters had distinct personalities, many of which contradicted their scene partners. These details, such as the adoption of southern and Irish accents, enhanced the audience's experience. The entire cast committed wholeheartedly to their characters and also paid attention to the smallest of details. This attention to detail made the character realistic and caused the climactic finale to be all the more powerful. Between her accurate fingerspelling and her consistent "stimming", it was clear this actress had done her research. Saskia Hunter perfectly captured the personality and expressions of her character without a word of dialogue. The two actresses created a dynamic that grew as the show progressed and culminated in a tear-jerking finale. These moments were also supported by the strong connection built between Annie and Saskia Hunter's Helen. Noelle Hunter's commitment, facial expressions, and delivery consistently created both comedic and touching moments. The expression in Hunter's voice and the desperation in her face cut directly to the audience's core. In a striking monologue, Annie begs Helen to understand her so Annie can teach her about the world. Noelle Hunter beautifully conveyed this concept. The story is ripe with emotion, thought, and struggle as the two young women learn from each other and grow to have a greater understanding of the world.Ī key aspect of Annie's journey is that she never wishes to change Helen, only to provide her a way to communicate. Annie Sullivan is hired to teach Helen, to pull her out of isolation, and to provide her tools with which she can build herself a normal life. Helen, who is both blind and deaf, has no way to communicate or understand the world around her. The Miracle Worker, written in 1959 by William Gibson and based on Annie Sullivan's autobiography, follows the story of a young teacher and her progress with a unique student, Helen Keller. The Miracle Worker, performed with great heart by the students of Dominion High School, captures this remarkable woman's spirit and shows what determination can truly accomplish. With this definition, no one could be more virtuous than the ever-patient Annie Sullivan.