Viewed as one of the most sensational and intriguing mysteries of 20th century Iowa history, the real-life kidnapping case of three-year old Ray Elliott from Marengo was covered by newspapers across the entire state from 1893 – 1896. Young Ray was discovered missing in May of 1893. In July of 1895, a boy matching his description was discovered in Waterloo and brought to Marengo. The Elliott family claimed he was their long-lost son. The Burke family declared he was their child, Roy. The habeus corpus case (habeus corpus literally meaning "you may have the body") was decided in court by Judge M.J. Wade, but the true identity of the child was never discovered until playwright Thomas P. Johnson (South Amana) used modern measures of DNA testing to answer the question in a definitive manner in 2002. Johnson has uncovered even more information since his first theatrical production of the story twelve years ago. The ITAC presentation of the story will use an ensemble of actors to portray the many characters involved in this fascinating tale of love and deception. Violinist Ursula Williams (Middle Amana) will help set the tone of the play with live music accompaniment.
Evening and matinée performances are scheduled to begin with the 7:30 pm show on Saturday, September 13. There is also a Sunday matinée at 2:30 pm on September 14. The next two weekends will offer Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30 pm. Ticket prices are: $22.50 Adult; $20 Senior and $10 Student. A student price is offered to those attending school all the way through college and graduate school. Due to subject matter, this play is not recommended for those younger than high school age. To reserve tickets, call: (319) 622-3222. For more information about Lost Boy Found and the Iowa Theatre Artists Company, visit: iowatheatreartists.org.
Source: ITAC Press Release
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