The Heavens Are Hung In Black

Went to this play last night at the new renovated Ford's Theatre. Ford's has taken over the building to one side. It has placed the lobby in that building along with the box office, gift shop and the bathrooms. The theater reopened on February as part of the 200th anniversary of Lincoln's birth. For details about the gala go here.

They certainly did a wonderful job with the restoration. The interior of the theater is incredible. The seats well you can actually sit in them. Calling them uncomfortable in the past would be kind.

The show itself was very well done. It takes place during 1862. The play starts shortly after the death of Willie, Lincoln's son in spring of 1862 and goes until late summer 1862. It delves into Lincoln coming to grips with emancipation. Here's the review from the Post.

From the review:

Plagued throughout the nearly three-hour "Heavens" by grief at the death of his own son -- and his guilt over the legions of fathers, sons and brothers he's sent into battle -- the Lincoln conjured by playwright James Still seems as movingly human as any man who's occupied the presidency. Selby helps immeasurably here, endowing his Lincoln with the gift of humility. The depth of empathy is such that you are allowed to believe that the president -- visited by a woman seeking a pardon for her soldier brother, who's been condemned for falling asleep at his post -- might get down on his knees with her and weep.

The play was in three acts. I thought act two was the best. The third act was just a bit too long. Overall it incorporated many of Lincoln's famous sayings and some of his actions while in the White House. One involves the pardoning of a toy soldier his son Tad has condemned to death because of sleeping at his post.

David Selby (of Falcon Crest and Dark Shadow's fame) plays Lincoln and he really does seem to become Lincoln on the stage. In all a very enjoyable evening.