VTA 2024: Standing on the Shoulders of Giants

From the early 1950s, until his death in 1986, Emery Blagdon used discarded and unusual materials to create a healing machine in the shed of his Nebraska farm. He believed the machine had the power to heal those who worked on it. Upon his death, Emery’s Healing Machine came to the American Folk Art exhibits at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.
Although inspired by a very real person, author J. Harvey Stone has created a new story with unique characters. The play explores themes of healing, the human spirit, family, abuse, and the culture of bullying. The play explores the notion that art can heal. It begs the question, "Can the simple and brave act of creation become an example of healing?"

CONTENT WARNING: Alcoholism, Bullying, Child Abuse, and Coarse Language