Play offers tribute to fallen heroes

Missouri Southern theatre students enter into a new season of productions with a tribute to heroes both locally and those in the World Trade Center on 9-11.

The Guys, directed by Dr. Jay Fields, professor of theatre, is based on a true story written by Anne Nelson. Southern theatre will present the show in the Bud Walton Theatre at 7:30 p.m., Sept. 7-12.

The Guys focuses on the lives of four firefighters lost on 9-11. Their captain, responsible for writing their eulogies, seeks the aid of a journalist. During the process, she discovers what amazing men, fathers and husbands the men were.

The production also aims to show what unique experiences the people around us have had.

For the cast and crew, the play has been an emotional and sobering experience.

“One of the most difficult things is having to speed up the emotion we’re feeling because it’s hard to fit all of what we feel into the time slot of the play,” said Aaron Stockton, senior theatre and CADD major.

Stockton plays the role of Nick, the fire captain.

“Everyday is very emotional and very personal,” said Rachel Mastin, senior theatre major. “It brings back memories of 9-11 and makes it more personal by putting faces to it.”

Attendees will be able to pay tribute to local heroes as well as those who passed away on 9-11. Area firefighters are invited to attend and will be recognized at each performance.

A portrait of Carthage fireman Steve Fierro will be displayed at the play along with fireman’s gear for audience members to honor. Fierro passed away while fighting a fire in February.

In addition, pictures and video footage of the events of 9-11 will be shown before and during the play. Each of the men’s names who passed away in that fatal day will be read during the play; their portraits will also be shown.

Fields hopes people will come see the play with one thought in mind – a thought for those firefighters locally and those who passed away three years ago in the World Trade Center attacks.

“Let’s remember and pay honor and tribute again,” he said.

“It’s something we can all relate to since we all remember 9-11,” Mastin said. “The play helps heal the wounds that remain.”

Tickets are $3 for adults and $1 for senior citizens and children. Students and faculty have free admission, but need to make reservations. Tickets will be held until 7:15 p.m. the night of showing.

To make reservations, call 417-625-3190.