DINGMANS FERRY, PA — The community is invited to a special, encore presentation of the one-woman-three-character play, “Thinking Inside the Box,” on Saturday, April 5 at 4 p.m. in the Foundation Room of the Columns Museum.

April 2025 will mark 160 years since the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. The play on April 5 tells the story of the night President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, as seen through the eyes of the three women who were in the presidential box that fateful night. Patricia Durante will reprise her roles as Laura Keene, Mary Todd Lincoln and Clara Harris in a short historical play that brings these ladies to life “in a most creative fashion.”

“You will find the transformation between characters interesting, as it happens right before your eyes, the actress never leaves the stage!” according to a press release. “Clever costuming and a costume assistant make the transformation part of the show, and the actress portrays each of the three ladies to perfection, giving them all a distinct persona and capturing the nuances of each character.” 

“The Box,” as it has come to be known, was written by the Lori Strelecki, director of the Pike County Historical Society and Museum. The play evolved out of a short play written about Mrs. Lincoln. 

“‘Mary Todd Lincoln: A Woman on the Edge’ was very popular and had a good run of its own,” said Strelecki.“Stacey Case originated the role and then Ruth Randone portrayed her; I believe Ruth is still performing that play in Monroe County on occasion. They both did a wonderful job.” 

Strelecki eventually added the scripts for the two other ladies in the box that night at Ford’s Theatre: Laura Keene, the star of the play, and Clara Harris, socialite and guest of the Lincolns. 

Strelecki enlisted the help of actress Patricia Durante to bring the characters to life. It has been performed over 10 times and in various locations such as the Parsippany Women’s Theater and the University of Scranton.

The performance will be followed by wine and cheese on the main floor, where attendees can view the bloodstained Lincoln Flag.

The cost is $20 per person and includes the play, museum admission and wine-and-cheese reception. 

Those interested are asked to make a reservation by calling 570/296-8126 or emailing pikemuse@ptd.net. For more information, email Tim Singleton at tsingleton286@mapletree.com.