03/27/2026
“The Miracle Worker” : A Timeless Story of Determination, Hope, and Human Connection
Belvidere, NJ — Country Gate Players proudly presents William Gibson’s celebrated drama “The Miracle Worker” at the Country Gate Playhouse, 114 Greenwich Street, Belvidere, New Jersey.
Performances will take place April 18 at 7:00 PM, April 19 at 1:00 PM, April 25 at 7:00 PM, and April 26 at 1:00 PM. Tickets are available at www.countrygateplayers.org.
Directed by Gina Scurato, “The Miracle Worker” tells the extraordinary true story of Helen Keller, a child isolated by blindness and deafness, and Annie Sullivan, the determined young teacher who breaks through that silence. This deeply moving play explores the struggles, setbacks, and triumphs of a family determined to reach their child—and the remarkable bond that transforms them all.
Sophie Rivera portrays Helen Keller, a child whose intelligence and spirit burn beneath a barrier of silence. Her characterization personifies Helen’s explosive frustration and her eventual breakthrough into understanding.
Autumn Menza appears as Annie Sullivan, the fiercely dedicated teacher whose own difficult past fuels her relentless belief in Helen’s potential. Menza applies strength, vulnerability, and grit to the role of the “miracle worker,” whose unconventional methods challenge and ultimately change the Keller family.
Katie Smith portrays Kate Keller, Helen’s devoted mother, whose unwavering hope and compassion drive the effort to reach her daughter. David Gross takes on the role of Captain Arthur Keller, a commanding patriarch whose skepticism and pride clash with Annie’s methods, revealing a man struggling between authority and love. Hans Howk rounds out the Keller family as James Keller, Helen’s half-brother, whose sharp wit and keen observations expose the tensions within the household while hinting at deeper frustrations.
The supporting cast includes Grady Morgan (Doctor), Rosalie Loro (Martha), Elijah Puerschner (Percy), Colleen Capponi (Aunt Ev), William Grammes (Anagnos), Cindi Halkola (Viney), Jessica Griglak (Teacher/Crone), Sierra Griglak, Gianna Keglar, and Briar Hawk (Blind Girls), Maria Tucker (Servant), and Briar Howk (Annie’s brother).
Country Gate Players is honored to partner with the Belvidere Lions Club in anticipation of the club’s 75th anniversary. Inspired by Helen Keller’s historic 1925 call for Lions to become “Knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness,” Lions Clubs worldwide have long supported individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
In celebration of this partnership, audiences are invited to a special Pre-Show Champagne Reception on Sunday, April 26, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, presented by the Belvidere Lions Club. Reception tickets are $40 and include admission to the performance.
With its enduring themes of perseverance, family, and the transformative power of education, "The Miracle Worker" remains one of the most inspiring plays ever written. Country Gate Players invites audiences to experience this unforgettable story brought vividly to life on the Belvidere stage.
For tickets and more information, visit www.countrygateplayers.org