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WCA fundraiser features local man as Harry Truman

• By Ellen Pill
• October 11, 2022
• 827

In 1974 Richard Figge read the book, "Plain Speaking," by Merle Miller. The book is composed from interviews the author conducted with Harry S. Truman and those who worked closely with him. "I was absolutely riveted by the character," Figge said.

Figge, a retired professor of German at The College of Wooster, also is an actor. When he later saw the biographical play about Truman by playwright Samuel Gallu — and already well versed in starring in a one-man play, having portrayed both Clarence Darrow and John Barrymore on stage — he thought, "I want to do that."

Figge will portray the 33rd president in Gallu's one-man play, "Give 'Em Hell Harry," at the Wayne Center for the Arts on Friday, Oct. 21 and Saturday, Oct. 22, both shows at 7 p.m.

Figge’s colleague and good friend, Timothy Champion, one of the founding producers of the Ohio Shakespeare Festival, directs “Give ‘Em Hell Harry.” The two have worked together on numerous productions over the years.

"Truman became a world leader who never forgot where he came from," Figge said. "He was very plain spoken with a farm background."

Figge explained some of what drew him to the character.

"He was approachable," Figge said. "He put his cards on the table, and you admired the humor, earthiness, toughness and kindness."

One of the most fascinating things about Truman for Figge was how he assumed so much responsibility so unexpectedly, taking over after the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1945.

"He was only vice president for less than three months when Roosevelt died of a cerebral hemorrhage," Figge said. "Harry Truman probably had more overwhelming responsibility dumped on his shoulders than any person I can think of in history."

Figge shared the story of how when informed that Roosevelt had died, the first thing he did was ask Eleanor Roosevelt what he could do to help her, and she replied he had gotten it wrong because he was the one who was going to need the assistance.

Figge said he felt this was an important and appropriate time to remember the American presidency has had great moments with much to celebrate. When faced with a Supreme Court decision denying him the right to take over the steel mills, Truman accepted the decision, saying even though he disagreed, the Constitution prevails. "He believed he was not above the law,” Figge said.

In preparing for the part, Figge read about Truman, looked at film clips and also listened to recordings. "I don't try to disappear into the part, but I try to be true to the character as I understand it," he said.

Figge chose to stage the show at the art center and donate all proceeds because he believes in all the classes, events and activities the center offers in support of the arts. "The art center is a wonderful presence in this community," he said, "and if I can do something to support it, I welcome the opportunity."

"The money raised through this show will be part of the art center's annual fund drive to support our general operations," said Sara Brink, WCA executive director. "We offer many different kinds of programs and outreach, and class fees don't cover all of our expenses. The art center depends on community donations to help us provide enriching opportunities for all ages."

Tickets for the show, which will have general admission seating, are $10 and are available at the WCA front desk or online at www.wayneartscenter.org/visit/give-em-hell-harry-2022.html.

Figge has a weekly podcast, For Reading Out Loud, in which he reads short stories. Find it at www.richardfigge.com/reading-out-loud/.

"Let me tell you that during COVID, when we were hunkered down here, Harry Truman was awfully good and reassuring company," Figge said, and now area theater lovers have an opportunity to meet the Truman that Figge has come to know and spend an evening learning about his life and supporting local arts.