New Bern Puppets performed five shows of “The Governor’s Lesson in Mercy” at Vacation Bible School (VBS) sponsored by Christ Church, New Bern. It is a tale set in Colonial North Carolina in which Royal Governor Tryon is taught a valuable lesson in mercy by Rev. James Reed, rector of Christ Church. It was a joy for us to be part of the VBS program. The children were delightful.
The parish hall was a spacious setting for our marionette shows. The lovely red rug provided a cushioned seating for the children.
In the Prologue, Rev James Reed welcomed the children and gave a brief introduction to the show.
In Act I Royal Governor Tryon happens to meet a poor old beggar, who asks for assistance. The governor scoffs at the idea, and sings a lively tune rejoicing in his riches and heaping derision on the poor
In Act II, inside Christ Church, the Royal Governor is chided by Rev. James Reed for mocking the poor. Singing a song (set to the tune of a Mighty Fortress is Our God) the good rector preaches about the need to be Christ-like and show compassion and mercy to the less fortunate. The governor drops to his knees and repents, calling for the poor old beggar to be brought in.
The Governor apologizes to the beggar and vows to help him. The old man rejoices and thanks God.
After the shows Dennis and Cyndi demonstrated puppets and allowed children to operate one. Some of the older children were able to go to the back of the stages and practice. Such fun!
