THE MIRACLE WORKER is a play based on the true story of Helen Keller who became blind and deaf before she was two. It's also the story of Annie Sullivan, her teacher, who struggled with her own blindness and with the memories of growing up in an orphanage. Part of their story is the conflict of the North vs. South values of the American Civil War, and the cultural milieu that "everyone had their place." As a Captain in the war, Keller was used to strict discipline. But as head of the house-hold, hes unable to control the young Helen. She's rough and tumble, eats with her hands and has daily tantrums. Then along comes Annie. She is determined to make good at her first position. She recognizes that Helen's mind works perfectly well in spite of losing her senses. However, Annies grim past threatens to undermine her. Kate Keller is fiercely loving and wants to keep her family together. James Keller (Jimmie) is resigned to Helen's dominance in the family life, while searching for his own place after the death of his mother. Aunt Ev is torn between being a supporter of both Keller's sense of propriety and Kate's determination to get help for Helen.
