What the Constitution Means to Me is a must see at The Arden Theatre. I enjoyed it so much and I think you will too. It is part comedy and part informative. It was a journey of 15 year old Heidi Schreck played by Jessica Bedford as she earns college tuition money by doing her rendition of what the Constitution means to her in a debate. How does the Constitution stand up to current times. Should we abolish it or fix it?
Jessica Bedford photos by Wide Eyed Studios courtesy of Arden TheatreWhat to Expect before you go to Arden?
The show runs at 100 minutes with no admission. I felt it was like 120 minutes. Get to the show early so you can get concessions, park, and find your seating. Please be patient with the ushers as they show you were to go. In addition it’s less about dissecting every part of the Constitution but a journey of it. There is not one time that watching the show you are bored. It is interactive by the energy. I recommend kids who are in Junior high and up to see this show as there is some language.
Jessica Bedford, Brian McCann photos by Wide Eyed Studios courtesy of Arden TheatreJessica Bedford
I thought it was me when at the end during the debate I felt tears in my eyes. I think it was the first time I felt seen and heard regarding the laws of the land that were made to exclude people like me. Jessica’s energy was captivating. I was drawn into what she said even if by chance I didn’t agree. You couldn’t help but lean in. What is the Constitution in our time? Think about the evolution of life and people. There was never a time where we would have to use new pronouns. So now that we do, what part of the Constitution was set to protect their rights? Who’s rights take precedence?
Lily Chancey, Jessica Bedford, Brian McCann, and Dasha Mamontova photos by Wide Eyed Studios courtesy of Arden TheatreDasha Mamontova
I was blown away by her poise, knowledge, and her ability to debate. Everyone around me talked about her with joy. I saw a little of myself in her as a debater in high school. It takes a lot of work to be able to learn the material and more. Dasha was perfection. It was a balanced argument. Switching over from for and to of the Constitution being abolished, rebuttal, and more was pure genius. Make sure that you no only participate but that you engage yourself and your thoughts.
Jessica Bedford, Dasha Mamontova photos by Wide Eyed Studios courtesy of Arden TheatreMy Personal Take Away
Again the Bill of Rights. The Bill of Rights were not in thought of what people who looked like me looks like. It didn’t take on the concept of women, mothers, LGBTQ+, or what other black or brown people’s rights would look like. In addition to its conceptions the inability to make drastic changes is crazy to me. We fight constantly online with others about the right to exist. Many times these rights cause such a debate that it tears families apart. Why? The thirst for power is real but the demonstration of inclusion is even greater.
The show is so good that it got extended until December 10th. This show is good for all ages. In my opinion junior high age and up would benefit the most from this. The show will challenge your thoughts. You may not leave with a change of heart but it will challenge you to be open to the ideal of seeing things beyond yourself. The Arden Theatre is located at 40 N. 2nd Street, Philadelphia PA 19106. There is parking right across the street. It does fill up fast. Get your tickets now.
