Amish Poems

The folks you know as Amish

Are a rare and simple kind,

Their religion, faith and living

Is one that you'll rarely find.

They dress with plainess and modesty

And put their trust in God

They believe the teachings of our Lord

And on this Earth he trod.

The Bible is their companion true

With the family it's daily read

They try to live each day as their last

Like their Lord and Master said.

They never go to war

And never swear and oath

Yes means Yes and No means No

And they try always to speak the truth.

They also are a human being

Like everyone they mistakes make

They try to lead a God-fearing life

For their Loving Masters Sake.

Written By: Rebecca Helmuth

April 25, 1996

A n 80 acre historic farm.

M ay come to your wandering mind.

I n Nappanee it makes its home.

S implicity in the place you'll find.

H ave you ever dreamed of wandering.

A round an Amish farm.

C ome visit with the friendly folks.

R est far away from harm.

E nergetic, smiling people, here at the farm you'll find.

S omeone who can answer questions, and also will be kind.

Written By: Rebecca Helmuth

April 25, 1996

Come Enjoy A Day At Amish Acres!

How Do You Herd Cats?

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats opens in The Round Barn Theatre Friday night, curtain time 8:00 p.m. After watching rehearsals over the last three weeks, I am in awe of the talent it takes to mount this production. It is by far the most complex and demanding show we have ever done. The cast that Laurie Schotz has assembled resembles a thoroughbred stable—bad analogy—but it fits. The dancing and athleticism required is grueling. Preventing injury by intense “pre-game” warm up makes my experience in sports seem pale.

Fifteen highly professional dancers/singers have been assembled from thirteen states. Bryan J. Wlas and Nathan W. Brown are directing/choreographing and music directing the show. Matt Green is lighting the production in addition to designing the sound. Makeup takes an hour before each show as every cat’s personality comes to life through the faces of the actors. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s adaptation of “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats” by T.S. Eliot is, of course, genius.

Many people are trumpeting the end of live theatre because of the ease of watching your favorite TV show or movie on your IPhone. Well, Cats is not your grandfather’s live theatre. It is an ingenious escape into a world of imagination at its best. I won’t reveal the set details, but there is no doubt these are domestic cats who stand 24 inches on their hind legs. Interwoven is a story in song about the circle of life that anticipates the next generation’s Lion King. 800 of our season subscribers saw the opening number this week during our 2010 Theme Buffet and Theatre Preview Party. If their response is an indication, nearly all 68 performances will be sold out.