“In the manner of the Spoon River Anthology, this collection of verse has the dead speaking of their lives and abrupt departures on September 11, 2001.
Writers Viola and Kilborne take the poetic license of putting words in the mouths of the dead in this collection of free- and rhymed-verse portraits. The facts are drawn mostly from the New York Times's “Portraits of Grief,” the award-winning series of vignettes about the victims of 9/11. Then Viola and Kilborne assume control, adding a wash of color and personality as best they can imagine. A number of the pieces have a certain staccato rhythm, an abruptness of tone that reflects what those last moments may have been like. Others are conversational, sometimes in the form of duets, as when siblings or married couples both perished (e.g., brothers: Vincent… “I persuaded Cantor Fitzgerald / To hire him as a bond trader / In my department / We were a team.” And Andrew: “He talked; I listened. / That’s my brother’s idea of a dream team.” While some are sassy and defiant, others nail home the profound feeling of loss, especially when children are involved” “Now Zachary will raise my son”; or “I planned on having two days off / That I would spend with Irene / Fixing up a nursery / For a child due in October.” A few of the selections feel a bit rushed to include the pertinent information — “I played guitar, / Studied kung fu / And photography, / Climbed Mount Rainier…” — while others stumble over the verse: “At Carr’s Futures / I may be missed / As a financial / Analyst.” But each illustrates the extreme difficulty in capturing the essence of the departed’s being. Viola and Kilborne manage to inject immediate life into many of these quick studies, which is certainly a tribute that all these men and women deserve.
The preface quotes Eli Weisel: “Memory may be our most powerful weapon against fanaticism.” Thank you, then, for the poignant memories. — Kirkus Reviews
Selected Comments on Twin Towers Anthology
“Viola and Killborne have crafted a… moving tribute to the people who died Sept. 11 that focuses on life rather than death… The show brought smiles and laughter at quirks and funny stories [and] evoked the charm, spark, and vibrant personalities of these special — yet oh so ordinary — people.” — Kathi Scrizzi Driscoll, Cape Cod Times (Sept. 9, 2002)
“Impressive. Twin Towers Anthology should become a lasting part of history to commemorate 9/11 over the years.” — Libby Hughes, On-line review, Cape Cod Today (September 15, 2002)
“Twin Towers cracks our reserve about September 11… [Viola and Kilborne’s characters] have passed into our hearts and become part of us, despite their flaws and because of their intelligence and humor. They are now a small part of me… [Viola and Kilborne] tirelessly and lovingly gathered their data, wrote the monologues, and are now prepared to share their brilliance with the public.” — Melora B. North, The Barnstable Patriot (Sept. 6, 2002)
“Brilliant, extraordinary work.” — Professor Enoch Durbin, Princeton University.
“It is touching, incredible and truly a work of art. I’m surprised that I’ve seen nothing else of this magnitude, but not surprised that you put it all together.” — Tome DeGray, Former Headmaster, The Peddie School
“Moving and humanizing. Thank you for doing this.” — Joyce Flynn, Harvard University
“…a beautiful and extraordinary piece of theatre…” — David Kaye, Theatre Department, University of New Hampshire
“…an amazing tribute filled with love and grace…” — Nina Schuessler, Artistic Director, Harwich Junior Theatre
“Albert T. Viola’s Cape Cod Actors’ Workshop presented a moving performance of Twin Towers Anthology…” — New England Theatre Conference Review, November 1, 2002
“I want to thank you so much for choosing Carol for Twin Towers Anthology. The family is truly in gratitude in what you have done in her memory. You are wonderful people…” — Marilyn Matthews, sister of Carol La Plante, Long Island, New York
“Thank you for including my extraordinary daughter, Karol, in Twin Towers Anthology and for giving celebration to those who are gone but not forgotten,” — Denise Keasler, Las Vegas, Nevada
“I am extremely touched you and Mr. Killborne have included a monologue about Eugene Clark in your new play, Twin Towers Anthology. Being the ‘Diva’ he was, and in my heart always will be, I know that he is also very happy.” — Larry L. Courtney, Gene’s partner, New York City
“A greatly moving piece of work. I came away knowing some of the victims of 9/11 and with a kind of sense of closure.” — Jill Romeo, South Yarmouth, MA
“This was an excellent production. It put a human face to all those lost on 9/11. We were in Brooklyn the day of the attack. I saw the tower burning, not believing what I was seeing. It was a day I will never forget. This play (Twin Towers Anthology) will help to keep alive the memory of those lost.” — Mary and Jeffrey Fass, South Yarmouth
“…moving but uplifting. A most beautiful way to keep the hearts broken open — feeling of humanity.” Kathless Greager Ryan, Cape Cod
“…very touching — with honesty and humanity. Music was wonderful.” Charlotte and Henry Werrick, Mashpee, MA
“I was moved by everyone in the performance of Twin Towers Anthology. We must never forget September 11, 2001.” — Justin Horner, Hyannis, MA
“Sad, reflective, moving yet passionate. Take it on the road!” — Helen Bresnahan and Clare Neal, Centerville MA
“Moving, so realistic. I will never forget this performance.” — Janet Reagan, Cape Cod, MA
“Twin Towers Anthology was beautifully and respectfully done. Congratulations to all who produced and acted in it. Thank you for sharing.” — Grace Waystock, Harwich MA
“It was an honor to see and feel this presentation. Thank you.” — Betty and Dick Neitz, South Yarmouth, MA
“Well done! It took strength and courage to do this. Beautifully presented.” — Tony Saizdan, Cape Cod, MA
“Splendid performance! Everyone did a wonderful job! Thank you for telling their stories!” — Don Hunter, Amherst NH
“This should be done every year at the memorial on 9/11.” — Nancy and William Boncos, Fall River, MA
“Fantastic!” — Tom and Marian Falciglio
“It was wonderful. I feel as if I became personally involved with the victims of 9/11. Thank you for giving us a different perspective.” — Judi and Dave Bislise, Setucket, RI
“Just great! Very wonderful tribute to those not with us. God bless you all!” — JK McCarthy, Chatham, MA
“I saw a preview of this show at South Yarmouth Library. I knew I had to come to the full performance. It is very powerful and so meaningful. Great job. Keep showing this.” — S. Abrams, Martha’ Vineyard, MA.
“Very moving. Always remember!” The Kelly’s, Harwich, MA
“Very moving. A fine tribute.” “H.M.J., Cape Cod, MA
“An awesome production. Should be seen by everyone! Perhaps a TV special for all to see! Most reflective!” — The Raphaelians, Weston, MA
“A sensitive and powerful production. Thank you!” — Dr. Peter and Mary Amorosi
“A beautiful and powerful performance done by all. We will not forget 9/11.” — Kate Waystock, Harwich, MA
“It really touched my heart. Well done. I will never forget 9/11 or this show that was done with a lot of thought and excellent acting.” — Leigh Ann Small, Brewster, MA
“Very moving. You have made a beautiful contribution to our memories.” — Joan Sheehan, Easton, CT
“An amazing portrayal of some of the victims of 9/11. You brought home to us the real people, their joys, their hopes and dreams. For the first time we felt we could identify with them.” — Shelly and Moe Spector
Available through
Players Press
PO Box 1132
Studio City CA 91614-0132
or by special order through your local bookstore and Baker & Taylor
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