“Language is to the mind more than light is to the eye.” In Dominion High School’s moving production of The Miracle Worker, this was certainly the case in the tale of Helen Keller and her teacher Annie Sullivan as they defy all odds, conquering a feat considered impossible.

The play, written by William Gibson, premiered on Broadway in 1959, enjoying a successful run and winning multiple Tony Awards, including Best Play. The Miracle Worker was later adapted into a 1962 film starring Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke. The show follows the early life of Helen Keller, who was left both blind and deaf following a fever as an infant, causing her to be completely nonverbal. Helen’s parents, Captain Arthur and Kate, have in turn spoiled her out of pity, allowing chaos to ensue as she lashes out at her family in rage. In a desperate last hope, the Keller’s hire Annie Sullivan, a governess and teacher. The two commence a battle of determination and begin a journey towards understanding each other and the world around them.

The cast effortlessly worked as a unit, reacting with physical movements and creating tangible relationships. Saskia Hunter, as Helen Keller, was a highlight of the show, as she perfected every intricacy to her youthful character with a graceful transformation from a scared young girl to one equipped with the understanding of language. Hunter never broke character and consistently portrayed the actions of a blind and deaf girl with wild movements and a blank stare. Noelle Hunter, as Annie Sullivan, truly embodied the stubborn nature of the Irish teacher, never faltering on her accent. The chemistry between the two was remarkable and the famous dinner scene helped to strengthen the idea that the scenes without lines were some of the most memorable.

Rebecca Williamson, as Kate Keller, brought southern charm to the show, as the gentle mother of Helen. Williamson’s pain was evident, but she also carried certain strength within her as she found it in herself to stand up to her husband. Josh Thomas, as James Keller, brought a comedic element to the show, as the disinterested half-brother. Thomas may have had a small part, but each line he delivered packed a punch. It was the evident connection felt by this family that helped to bring this show together.

The technical production of this show was quite remarkable in the fact that each aspect seemed to intertwine with the others. The bright lights on the stark white walls of the set hinted at the harsh Alabama sun and helped the audience understand how Annie’s eyes were affected by the move. A well pump sat on the side of the stage throughout the play, alluding to the end of the story and eliciting gasps from the audience as the pump was revealed as fully functioning. Voiceovers were utilized to portray Annie’s flashbacks and created a nice transition as sets were changed. Although there was a few malfunctions with the sound, improvisation by the cast was truly commendable.

The cast and crew of Dominion High School’s production of The Miracle Worker captivated with a miraculous performance sure to stick with the audience “forever and ever.”