The former St. Joseph's Orphanage, a massive, three-story Colonial Revival structure built in 1910, sits on a hill surrounded by large oak trees in North Little Rock. It was the setting April 18 for the fundraiser Joey's Journey, a Drama and Dinner.
The play, written by Kitty Chism, is a fictional story based on actual events at the orphanage and follows an orphan named Joey. Music and lyrics were by David Roth. Cast and crew were all local folks including producer Claire Haun, director Jane Morgan Balgavy and music director Chuck Massey.
Originally planned to take place on the front lawn, the event moved inside on the threat of rain. The farm-to-table dinner was held in the former cafeteria followed by the two-act play in the chapel. It was a sold-out crowd.
Plans are in the works to make this an annual fundraising event with other stories from the occupants of St. Joseph's.
The drama was a fundraiser by The Voices of St. Joseph to help restore the building and grounds of the former children's home. The historic building is owned by the Catholic Diocese of Little Rock, which leases it to St. Joseph Center of Arkansas.
-- Story and photos by Cary Jenkins
High Profile on 04/26/2015