UW AHC Part of Tim Kelly Play and Exhibit at State Capitol July 4

When the League of Women Voters of Wyoming received an America 250 grant to produce "The Remarkable Susan," a play about pioneering suffragist Susan B. Anthony, the organization made an unexpected discovery: The playwright's papers are preserved at the American Heritage Center (AHC) at the University of Wyoming.

Tim Kelly (1937-2020) was one of America's most prolific playwrights, writing more than 150 published plays performed in all 50 states, as well as internationally. His works ranged from mysteries, thrillers and adaptations of famous literature to children's theater and historical dramas, earning him numerous national awards throughout his career.

"The Remarkable Susan" tells the story of the 1873 trial of Susan B. Anthony, who was arrested for the "crime" of casting a ballot. The performance takes place Saturday, July 4, at 3 p.m. in the auditorium at the Capitol Extension in Cheyenne, demonstrating how archival collections continue to connect the past with new audiences and new stories.

A living history presentation, featuring 24 "Remarkable Women of Wyoming" played by a local cast, will follow the performance. An exhibit curated by the AHC featuring photos and excerpts from Kelly's manuscript collection also will be on display throughout the event.

One excerpt from the AHC's Tim Kelly Papers, a quote from a Dec. 19, 1985, issue of Drama-Logue magazine, provides insight into Kelly's opinion on the arts.

"We need the arts. We need theatre. We need dance. We need music and painting. All of these things make life endurable, soften its sharp edge," Kelly said.

The performance and exhibit are part of a larger day of celebration filled with live music, speakers and other activities at Wyoming's Capitol. A full schedule of events can be found at https://www.capitalcitycelebration.com.