Modern images of the Pilgrims depict a pious, God-fearing bunch who left England due to their religious beliefs which opposed those of the Crown. After a grueling journey across the Atlantic and a brutal first winter in Plymouth, they established the first permanent English colony in New England. Of course, this is a very “in a nutshell” description, but overall, the Pilgrims are known for their “all work, no play” ethos.
Young Pilgrims shines a light on the personal lives of Mayflower passengers who become much more than the stoic faces seen in paintings or on statues. It balances events and harsh conditions that are an integral part of their story with the feelings and emotions of the passengers. The play also brings to the forefront that not all passengers were Separatists. For instance, John Alden, a main character in the play, was actually a cooper on the ship and was not on the journey due to religious motivation. The story chronicles the romance of Alden and Priscilla Mullins in a touching, comedic, and engaging way.
The production is staged by a talented group of young actors and directed by Theresa Chiasson, known for her work with Plymouth’s Priscilla Beach Theatre. The play was written by Sydney Blake, a television sitcom writer. For Blake, the tale of Alden and Mullins was personal, as her husband and daughter are descendants of the pair.
The actors range in age from high school through early 20s and do a remarkable job portraying historical characters through a 21st-century lens. Although the vernacular used is of the time period, the sentiments and wit are entirely relatable. Imagine a modern romantic comedy set aboard the Mayflower. (Even the types of music used are instrumental primitive versions of currently popular songs such as The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights”.)
I brought my six-year-old son to the production and even though some of the dialogue was over his head, he understood much of it and was laughing out loud on many occasions. The play is currently in production through August 13th with performances every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening at 7:30 at the First Parish Church of Duxbury (842 Tremont Street). Park in the back of the church to enter the Elder Brewster Parish House, where the play is staged. For more information visit the website at www.youngpilgrimstheplay.com or email at youngpilgrimstheplay@gmail.com.
