A Les Mis for the Mountains: Judith, Deliver Us Hits All the Right Notes

A Story Rooted in History

Hannah Gregory’s Judith, Deliver Us, produced by One Off Productions, is a stirring new musical that blends the grit of the 1920s–1930s Appalachian coal miner strikes with the biblical Book of Judith. The result? Think Les Misérablestransported to the hills and hollers — but with top-tapping folk tunes and a homegrown emotional punch.

The story follows a small Appalachian community fighting for justice, dignity, and survival against a ruthless coal company. Love, courage, and justice are tested in a world of murder, coercion, and the temptation to “sell your soul to the company store.”

A Heroine with Fire and Grace

Gregory not only wrote the script and score but also embodies Judith with a voice that combines the crystalline power of Sarah Brightman with the warmth and grit of a mountain balladeer. She’s a Walton with fire in her soul, anchoring the story with strength and vulnerability.

Complex Characters, Powerful Performances

Brianny Miller’s April is a nuanced portrait of moral transformation. She moves from quiet complicity to active ally, her haunting vocals pulling at your heart with every note.

As Hal, the company man, Rory Sheridan drips with menace. His snarling facial expressions and cavernous baritone could make you believe Deliverance just rolled into town.

Johnny Kyle Cook’s Manny, the principled and idealistic mayor, is both physically vulnerable and utterly lovable. His vocals evoke Michael Crawford at his emotional peak — rich, expressive, and brimming with conviction.

The ensemble is a dream team of Cincinnati theater talent, breathing life into Gregory’s heartfelt, emotionally charged script.

Music That Moves the Soul

The band — dressed in Appalachian garb, some barefoot, some in boots — becomes part of the show’s fabric. Under the musical direction of Rupert Spraul, the score blossoms with dynamic contrasts and lush Appalachian harmonies that deepen the drama. These are tunes that stick with you long after curtain call.

A Set That Speaks Volumes

The scenic design transforms Gabriel’s Corner into a coal-mining town, seamlessly shifting between homes, company offices, and street scenes. Hanging blankets and Mason jar lighting create an inspired sense of place, rustic and intimate.

Adding Historical Depth

A post-show discussion with Dr. Rebecca Bailey, an expert on Appalachian and labor history, provided rich historical context, including insights into the Matewan Massacre and the mine wars. It was a reminder that while Judith, Deliver Usis fiction, its themes and struggles are rooted in lived history.

Why This Show Deserves Another Run

Although its run at Gabriel’s Corner will have closed by the time you read this, I hope this show is picked up by a larger local theater for a full-scale production. Still, the intimate, period-authentic feel of this staging made it something special.

Shawn Says… Judith, Deliver Us is an Appalachian anthem of resilience — powerful, poignant, and worthy of a second (and third) life on Cincinnati stages.