Port Polson Players reprise “No Coward’s Epitaph”
President Lincoln (Neal Lewing), General Sherman (Jim Siracusa), Thomas Francis Meagher (Mike Gillpatrick) and General Grant (Eric Donovan) join a cast of 14 Mission Valley performers for a final encore performance of "No Coward's Epitaph," Nov. 10-13, at Polson’s Theatre on the Lake. (Karen Lewing/Port Polson Players)
The Port Polson Players are reviving their popular musical, “No Coward’s Epitaph.” A cast of 14 Mission Valley performers presents the story of Thomas Francis Meagher, Montana’s first acting territorial governor, for four days, Nov. 10-13 at Polson’s Theatre on the Lake.
Curtain time for this final encore production is 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m.
Following an enthusiastic world premier last fall, the Players remounted “No Coward’s Epitaph” in May; the second sold-out weekend was canceled due to COVID. But, says Players Artistic Director Karen Lewing, “We’re as determined as Thomas Francis Meagher to bring this story to life once more in Polson before taking it on the road to several Montana communities that have requested it.”
“So few Montanans know about the guy on the horse in front of the State Capitol,” says Players Managing Director Neal Lewing, the show’s author. “We’re out to change that. This is the first time Meagher’s story has been told on the musical theatre stage.”
The show, including its title, is scripted with many of Meagher’s own eloquent words.
“We’re anticipating a huge turnout and are thrilled by the support the show has been given by audiences and our talented cast,” says Neal. “We’re equally proud the Mission Valley is the first to provide this lesson in world, U.S. and Montana history using live musical theatre as its vehicle!”
There is no charge for this final encore performance, but a freewill offering is requested from attendees. Reservations are required to avoid overbooking. Call 406-883-9212, or go online at portpolsonplayers.com.