The dancers of the Midwest Dance Collective bring to life “Lost in Silence,” a multi-layered presentation of Edgar Lee Masters’ Spoon River Anthology. Directed by Paddy Lynn, Jon Lynn, and Ellen Werksman, “Lost In Silence” brings characters to life through music, dance and spoken word.

No other literary work from Illinois has ever had the radical impact as Edgar Lee Masters’ Spoon River Anthology, published in 1915. In his masterpiece, people from all walks of life come forward from their graves and share compelling stories of their hopes, dreams, tragedies, and joys, not to mention their advice and warnings to those who are still living. Their stories not only reflect life and times of those living in 1915, but also offer universal lessons to all of us living today.

International storyteller and actress Paddy Lynn has been sharing her passion for literature and storytelling for over twenty years with people of all ages.  Her storyacting programs for children have traveled all over the Midwest and many cities in Mexico.  Paddy is the author of several children’s books and has served as a drama teacher in various schools and libraries in Illinois.

Renowned theatre director and retired teacher Jon Lynn has a special affinity for Spoon River, having directed it numerous times in his teaching career. Jon has spent over 50 years with the Kirk Players in Mundelein and now serves as an actor and director for the group.

Master teacher, choreographer and director Ellen Werksman has created works of “dance-art” for the Barrington and Chicagoland area for over 30 years. She has been recognized internationally for her innovative and creative choreography as well as being heralded as a Master Teacher, having traveled across the U.S. and Mexico sharing her expertise. She is also the Director of The Dancewerks Barrington Dance Studio.