As the final act of this year’s Founders Day celebration, the Bismarck Historical Society will present “Little Casino,” a two-act play about some of the events that shaped part of Bismarck’s earliest years and the people that lived them.
On May 24 and 25 at 7:30 P.M. and on the 26 at 2:00 P.M. the doors of history will open slightly to give the audience a glimpse of life in the new and raw frontier town of Edwinton/Bismarck, Dakota Territory and some insights into the beliefs and attitudes and day-to-day concerns of its first citizens. Among these, will be found Dr. B. F. Slaughter and his wife Linda, Captain Grant Marsh, Sheriff Alexander McKenzie, Reverend Isaac Sloan, Mr. and Mrs. J. Emmons, Col. Clement Lounsberry…..and the woman known as Little Casino.
During its formative days in the 1870s, Bismarck could have vied with Dodge City and Tombstone for lawlessness and this is the time frame in which the play, Little Casino takes place. Most of the story takes place in a house once standing on the site now occupied the Bismarck Tribune. Little Casino, owner of the house and manager for its “soiled dove” residents, welcomed many customers, sometimes including community leaders. Their stories, along with those of the women who lived and worked there, are told in this fascinating play. On the other hand, Little Casino was also known to be generous and kind. If she heard of people, especially children, needing help, she would find a way to give them money through one of the local churches. All the elements for romance, intrigue and a great story come together in this well-developed, well-written play.
Ev Miller, noted playwright and long time Bismarck High School teacher, is excited about the revival of his play, Little Casino. The original site of the play’s debut, the Belle Mehus Auditorium, will once again host the play. Brian Brady, well known local actor and director, is directing this event for the Bismarck Historical Society.
Advanced sale tickets are available at Eckroth Music and String Bean Music prior to May 24 for $12.00 general admission or $10.00 for students and senior citizens. After the 24, tickets will be $15.00 and $12.00 at the door.