Former Russellville resident performs in ‘Miracle Worker’

Formerly of Russellville, Elizabeth Ragsdale is playing the role of Aunt Ev – the sister of Helen’s father, Captain Keller – in this year’s production of “The Miracle Worker,” the 63rd annual production to be performed on the grounds of Helen Keller’s birthplace, Ivy Green, located in Tuscumbia.

She performed in the products for three previous years and also played the role of Annie Sullivan in a prior year’s show. “This cast is phenomenal,” Ragsdale said. “Our director, Caroline Self, was my Helen when I played Annie Sullivan.”

She was 10 years old when she met Ragsdale and played the Helen to her Annie. “Portraying the very difficult team of Annie and Helen together helped us develop a deep bond that will last a lifetime,” Self explained.

“Elizabeth chaperoned me on my first date, and over the years, we have laughed together and cried together more times than I can count. I treasure my relationship with her, and I am so grateful that she has returned to the Ivy Green stage to play Aunt Ev,” she added. “To be able to direct the woman I very much saw as a role model when I was ten years old is such a gift.”

“The Miracle Worker,” performed in Tuscumbia on the grounds of Ivy Green, Helen Keller’s birthplace, is running on Friday and Saturday nights from July 12-20. The play is performed in the outdoor ampitheater. Reserved and general admission seating can be purchased by calling 256-383-4066. General admission seating can also be purchased by visiting themiracleworker.info.