Nature: A Walking Play | performed at the Old Manse in 2017

In the fall of 2017, TigerLion Arts’ performed the innovative walking play called 'Nature' at the Old Manse, a historic property in Concord, MA.  

Nature explored humankind's relationship to nature through the eyes of two of America’s greatest environmental voices and friends, Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, who both lived and wrote some of their most famous works at The Old Manse, in Concord which served as a gathering place during America’s political, literary, and social revolutions.

The family-friendly performance of 'Nature', which debuted for the first time on the East Coast at the Old Manse in the fall of 2017, is an original work collaboratively created and performed by Tyson Forbes, a direct descendant of Ralph Waldo Emerson whose grandfather, Patriot Minister William Emerson built the Manse in 1770.

Tyson created the play in collaboration with his wife, Markell Kiefer, who also serves as the director and it has not only won a regional Emmy for its PBS Documentary.

Grounded in the story of their friendship, this virtuosic production offered a perspective on their lives that is strikingly relevant, richly complex, and yet utterly simple. Nature is performed outdoors as a “walking play.”

The Old Manse is a perfect setting for the walking play, as Emerson lived and wrote there in the 19th century, even drafting his essay Nature from an upstairs bedroom. Thoreau visited frequently to discuss Transcendentalism and philosophy, and planted an heirloom vegetable garden outside that (after some replanting) still exists today.

Indeed, this was no ordinary play: the stage was actually the grounds of the Old Manse.  Audience members followed actors as they traversed the property, moving around while soaking in the rolling meadows, leafy trees, and arresting scenery that the play celebrates.  It was truly sublime. 

This professional ensemble of talented actors took the audience on a journey through the natural environment as scenes unfold around them.  Bagpipes, ancient flutes, drums and rich choral arrangements are intricately woven into the experience. 

It's worth repeating, that the he acting was top notch.   Every nuance, expression, interaction, movement was purposeful, and powerfully evocative.  There was humor, drama, action and emotion.   

I was fortunate to experience this outdoor performance on a picture perfect day with bright blue skies and delightful breezes.   I still think about it - and am grateful to have had the experience and the wherewithal to snap these photos to remember it.  

I also feel fortunate to have lived in such close proximity to all of these venues for so many years.  The rich history that surrounds this area is mind blowing.  From The Old Manse, Waldon Pond, and Alcott House to The Old North Bridge, Fruitlands, and the Minuteman Trail & more - metrowest Boston is full of remarkable historic figures, venues and events.

 Review:

I seriously loved everything about this play. From the impressive acting and the perfect location to the uniqueness of the 'walking play' element, it was like nothing I had ever experienced before. Every actor was top notch, from the leads to the ensemble. Made me appreciate the history of the characters, nature, and life on a whole new level. Celebrate this performance and see it before it leaves!

~Stacey Sao | BostonCentral

Find More Things to Do in Boston

There is certainly so much more to explore - so be sure to check out our guide to Free things to Do in Boston here, or our Rainy Day in Boston guide that includes ideas for great Boston Bowling Alleys, Boston Museums, and lots more. 

We also have a number of popular guides ranging from Boston Outdoor Activities, like Pick your own Strawberries near Boston, or Hiking Wachusett Mountain, to specific venue reviews like Worlds End,  the Boston Public Market, and The American Heritage Museum to name a few.

In addition, you can find lots more family-friendly events near Boston each week on our Boston events calendar, and in our our popular things to do this week newsletter.

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Stacey Sao has been the Managing Director of the family-friendly events and activities website, BostonCentral for well over 20 years.  She continues to enjoy discovering and exploring new places to visit in the Greater Boston area.