I’m Proud of You

My thoughts on I’m Proud of You or….full of the milk of human kindness

“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” - Antoine de Saint-Exupery

I’m Proud of You is a short ninety minute four person play that is one of the most gently powerful plays I have seen. This true story of the intersecting lives of Tim Madigan and Fred Rogers could be a template for making a better world.

The play is adapted by Tim Madigan and Harry Parker from Madigan’s book, I’m Proud of You, My Friendship with Fred Rogers. Parker also directs the production. Parker’s knowledge and love of the material is obvious as he directs with a gentle hand that emphasizes the humanity and dignity of both men and creates an intimacy with the audience and an aura of kindness.

Set Designer Kevin Brown, celebrated for his richly detailed and creative designs, opts for simplicity here. A raised wooden platform is center stage with a bench in the middle and off to either side are chairs. His backdrop is large vertical panels of white cloth. The simplicity of the set beautifully underscores the message of the play. Lighting Designer Bryan Stevenson uses the panels as palettes of color that change with the mood of the play. Ryan Simón’s sound design assures perfect clarity of the dialogue. Costume Designer Sharon Kaye Miller appropriately has the cast in everyday street clothes. Again, simplicity. Of course, Miller does have Rogers in one of his trademark sweaters.

Fort Worth journalist Tim Madigan goes to Pittsburgh to interview Fred Rogers, the television icon known to generations of kids and parents as Mister Rogers. What starts as an interview evolves into a life changing friendship as Madigan and Rogers grow close. Madigan’s memories that include complicated family relationships and struggles with mental illness are brought forth when Rogers asks him, “What are your essential invisibles?” and he relates to Rogers the stories that have made him the man he is. Madigan’s talks with Rogers are the core of the play. It is Rogers who tells Madigan “I’m proud of you” in one of the play’s most poignant moments.

Richie Haratine is Tim Madigan. Haratine’s energy, masterful storytelling, and amiable demeanor propel the story as he shows us Madigan’s strengths and vulnerabilities. Haratine has the charisma and the skill to keep an audience enthralled for ninety minutes.

Randy Pearlman delivers a beautifully understated performance as Fred Rogers. He captures the essence of the man without ever doing an impression. We see through Pearlman that Rogers is not a saint, but a kind and compassionate man who also happens to be very wise.

Versatile and talented actors Gabe Whitehurst and Lana K. Hoover appear as Actor 1 and Actor 2 respectively. Among his many roles, Whitehurst is particularly outstanding in the role of Tim’s troubled brother and Hoover differentiates all the female roles wonderfully and also becomes a charming youngster.

Parker’s skillful direction and the superb actors make the heartfelt, often witty, and moving I’m Proud of You a must see. It’s simple message of be kind and caring to each other could not be more needed right now and remember it was Mister Rogers who wanted us all to be neighbors. Right on, Fred.

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Photo by Kris Ikejiri

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