Danny Russel, who impersonates James Whitcomb Riley, will perform at 6 p.m. April 10 at Warsaw Community Public Library, 310 E. Main St.
Russel was cast in an original play, commissioned by The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, celebrating the life of the legendary “Hoosier Poet” in 1997. After performing for several months, leading to years, Russel decided to take his act on the road as an impersonator of James Whitcomb Riley. Russel will bring this whimsical portrayal of Riley capturing his charming sense of mischief.
The performance will share amusing shenanigans, dances on the medicine show, Riley’s success in the newspaper and on the lecture circuit, tours with Mark Twain, who called Riley “the best comedian in America,” performing his best-loved pieces (“The Raggedy Man,” “When the Frost is on the Punkin,” “Little Orphan Annie”) and will take requests. Learn about Riley’s connection to Raggedy Ann, the founding of Riley Hospital and more in this program celebrating National Library Week and National Poetry Month.
Russel and his wife, Teresa, live in Indianapolis. He studied at Chicago Actors Studio and Ball State University and has been a six-time grant recipient honored by the Indiana Arts Commission.
There is no cost to attend the show, but pre-registration is requested to insure the correct number of seats.
For more information, visit warsawlibrary.org or call 574-267-6011.
