Previously titled “Closure: a veteran’s inner skirmish.” Based on the life of Joseph L. Hall and actual events, Button Candy is a dramatic play that explores themes of forgiveness and veteran sacrifices. The play is set in 1884 Idaville, Indiana, with flashbacks to the protagonist’s Civil War experiences of the 1860’s. A quick-witted man who is full of heck and runs a general store while auctioneering on the side, Joseph wrestles with symptoms of PTSD and feelings of guilt connected to his roles in past battles. As he struggles to win the internal civil war of finding forgiveness for himself, he delights the town kids by letting them trade trouser buttons for a stick of candy. Of course their mothers are less than impressed with the idea when their children come home with their pants falling down! Premiered October 2012 by the Grand Rapids Players.
Grand Rapids Herald-Review article here.
Follow-up article here.
Reviews:
“A nice dichotomy of light-heartedness and heavy hands” N. Bergstedt, Grand Rapids Herald Review
“Don’t miss this thought-provoking play,” C. Christensen, Itasca Community Television, Inc.
“Amazing!!! I love love loved it! Moved me to tears and to laughter!” S. Richards
“My attention was riveted throughout…A treat for people who think.” J. Mason
“I was so impressed in so many ways. -especially with the obvious research you put into the story, the cleverness and humor…” M. Jess
“I don’t know when play will be produced again, but I highly recommend it.” D. Hall
ArtesianMind 