In a brave undertaking by a small school, the Fatima Theatre Company presented Thornton Wilder's "Our Town" Nov. 13 and 14 in the gym of Our Lady of Fatima High School.

Using a very minimalist set — consisting of nothing more than a few tables and benches, and no props to speak of — stage manager Megan Silva spoke directly to the audience as a member of the cast, showing them around "town" and telling stories necessary for the audience to follow the play that was split into three acts and separated by years of events. 

The play spans the life-cycle of the residents of Grover's Corner, a small New Hampshire town where most of the children graduate from high school, get married and settle in town in the early 20th century. 

Audrey Collins and Eric Norman play Emily Webb and George Gibbs, childhood friends and neighbors, who follow tradition and begin their life together after finishing school. George, son of Dr. and Mrs. Gibb (played by Andrew Jones and Victoria Harris), and Emily, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Webb (Greg Rapoza and Alexandra Sagat), struggle with the pressure to follow tradition but live happily, until Emily dies. Powerful performances by these actors captured the feelings of fear, love, and sorrow, and moved the audience to laugh and cry.

The supporting cast of characters created a realistic small town environment, from the gossip about alcoholic choir director Simon Stinson (Mitch Brogan), to the overly excitable and bubbly Mrs. Soames (Maria King). The varying character personalities and relationships worked together to bring a half dozen pieces of furniture to life as a living, breathing town.

"Our Town" was a serious and difficult undertaking by the Fatima Theatre Company. Directed by Maria Levesque, the actors, cast and crew worked tirelessly to bring the play to life.

"It was a lot of hard work from everyone," one student said backstage.

Judging by the booming applause as the cast took their bows, their efforts paid off.