MIAMI THEATRE’S ‘WHAT THE CONSTITUTION MEANS TO ME’ ASKS IF THE CONSTITUTION STILL SPEAKS

Shawn Maus
Sep 18
2 min read

Theatre That Makes You Laugh, Think, and Believe in the Future of America

A Living Document, A Living Play

Miami University Theatre and the Menard Family Center for Democracy present What the Constitution Means to Me by Heidi Schreck, on stage through September 21 at the Gates-Abegglen Theatre. This Pulitzer Prize finalist explores how the U.S. Constitution has shaped four generations of women in Schreck’s family. It blends autobiography, civics lesson, and live debate—reminding us that America’s founding document is still alive and evolving.

One Actor, Endless Energy

As Heidi, Sara Rose Detwiler delivers a powerhouse performance. She shifts between 15-year-old Heidi’s nervous energy and 40-year-old Heidi’s reflective calm with ease. The role demands stamina—it’s nearly a one-woman show—and Detwiler fills the stage with passion, humor, and urgency. Not once does it feel memorized or mechanical. Instead, her delivery feels personal, alive, and deeply human.

*Photo courtesy of Miami University Theatre Facebook page*

Debate Sparks Fresh Fire

Late in the evening, Danielle Todd-Harris arrives as the Debater. Her presence is a jolt of energy that lifts the play’s “third act.” Paired with Detwiler, their exchanges buzz with wit and conviction, reminding us the Constitution is not just history but a battle over the future. Garland Weaver, as Legionnaire/Mike, brings humor and warmth. His turn adds a male perspective that balances the piece—even when the script feels like it gives him too much spotlight.

Design That Tells the Story

Director Gina Handy-Minyard guides the audience through history and personal confession with steady hand and open heart. Scenic designer Madeline Milas transforms the stage into an American Legion Hall with visual echoes of memory. Cassie Mings’ lighting bathes scenes in sepia warmth, then snaps to bright clarity. Costumes by Lisa Martin-Stuart and sound design by Gary Minyard and Marly Wooster support the storytelling with subtle, effective choices.

Why It Matters Now

What the Constitution Means to Me is more than a history lesson. It’s a conversation about who we are as Americans and who we want to become. The script can feel uneven, but Miami’s production thrives on its performers and the urgency of its themes. It asks us to reconsider our relationship with democracy, reflect on the amendments that shape our freedoms, and imagine a Constitution that continues to evolve.

Don’t Just Watch—Act

What the Constitution Means to Me is theatre that makes you laugh, think, and re-examine your own relationship with democracy. It’s not just a night at the theatre—it’s a call to action.