For Immediate Release
October 15, 2002

Saint John Girl Captures the ‘Spirit’ of Helen Keller
10-year-old Felicia Rodrigues to perform powerful role at Imperial Theatre

A 10-year-old aspiring movie star has won the coveted, challenging role of Helen Keller in the Saint John Theatre Company’s upcoming production of The Miracle Worker.

For Felicia Rodrigues, a smart, vivacious girl whose only stage experience was a role as Mrs. Claus in a school play, the good news was a little overwhelming.

“When they called and told me that I got the role, I was crying, I was crying so bad,” she says. “I was so happy.”

William Gibson’s The Miracle Worker is the true story of a deaf-blind girl who grew up in the American south early in the late 19th century. A young teacher, Annie Sullivan (played by Sandra Donnelly-Tobias), worked relentlessly to bring the gifts of language and understanding to the ill-mannered child.

“All the girls who auditioned showed they had some talent and there were a number whom I seriously considered for the part of Helen,” director Robert Doherty explains. “However, along with the talent, Felicia had both the look I wanted for Helen, and a certain independent and courageous spirit in presenting herself for the auditions. It reminded me of Helen Keller's spirit.”

Rodrigues, who dreams of acting in movies, had never heard of Helen Keller before the casting call. Now, after weeks of juggling schoolwork and sports with a busy rehearsal schedule, she is able to portray Helen in a poignant, convincing and sometimes explosive way.

“I have taken temper tantrums at my house, but I wouldn’t do that in public, you know what I mean?” she says. “Now I have to do it. There’s a sound she makes, and she kicks her feet on the ground. I know how to do that.”

The Miracle Worker will be presented at the Imperial Theatre at 8 pm on November 15 and 16. There will be a matinee with sign language interpretation at 2 pm on the 16th, as well as a student night on November 14.

Rodrigues admits to being somewhat nervous about her Imperial Theatre debut, but she’s looking forward to bringing Helen Keller to the spotlight.

“My family is so excited,” Rodrigues gushes. “My aunt and all my cousins are so happy for me, and my friends. Mostly all of my friends are going to see it. It’s gonna be fun.”

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