Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Hear Gino Merli’s last thoughts

Play reading presents Tom Flannery work

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By SABINA DANA PLASSE
Express Staff Writer

The nexStage Theatre will continue its free play reading season with Tom Flannery's "The Last Thoughts of Gino Merli" on Thursday Jan. 20, at 7 p.m. The reading is a 50-minute monologue. Wood River Valley resident and actor J.D. Ryan will perform the reading.

Flannery's play is the story of Gino Merli, a World War II veteran and congressional Medal of Honor recipient. His life reflects the work ethic, spirituality and toughness of the people who serve and protect the United States.

Over 18,000 students, teachers and members of the general public have seen the production since its premiere in Scranton, Ohio. Flannery's play is not just a tribute to Merli, but to all the men and women who have donned the uniform of the United States in war or in peacetime. The play honors anyone who has put himself or herself in harm's way.

Tom Brokaw said that Merli was one of the inspirations for his book "The Greatest Generation."

"We send people to fight," Ryan said. "We have seen films about their lives, but rarely have any of their personal stories been told in the form of a play, in the intimate setting of live theater."

Complimentary cookies and drinks will be served. For details, call 726-9124.

Sabina Dana Plasse: splasse@mtexpress.com

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