On Friday night, Feb. 21, 2025, a staged reading of Thornton Wilder’s “Our Town” was presented at Daytona State College’s News Journal Center. It was a collaborative effort by students, staff, and community members, and the unique take on this classic play had both strengths and weaknesses.
“Our Town” is known for its focus on the simplicity of daily life in the town of Grover’s Corners. The crew took a minimalist approach for this performance, going without traditional sets, while still having the actors wear costumes. Because of this, the audience was able to focus more on the actors’ interpretations and the story itself.
“I thought the play was really good, I really enjoyed it,” said Emma Ceku, who’s an academic advisor at DSC.
Photo by: Mia Alexander.
However, the lack of a set posed some challenges. Without the visual aid of props and scenery, it was sometimes harder to fully engage in the performance. The actors worked hard to bridge this gap through dialogue and costumes, but there were moments where it felt like something was missing.
Photo by: Mia Alexander.
On the upside, the stripped-down staging brought a firsthand feel to the performance. The connection between the actors and the audience was more personal. The themes of the play, such as the fleeting nature of time and the beauty of ordinary moments, were highlighted in a touching way.
Compared to a full-fledged production, this staged reading demanded more from the audience’s imagination. Traditional plays, with their detailed sets and props, create a more visual environment. Here, the focus was solely on the narrative and the actors’ ability to convey the story.
Photo by: Mia Alexander.
Overall, the Daytona State College production of “Our Town” was a unique take on an original play. While the minimalist approach had its drawbacks, you couldn’t help but recognize the hard work of the performers. This experience offered a unique perspective on a beloved classic.