Dreaming of Diamonds: The Conwell Project

1888 - A poor young neighborhood man yearns to become a preacher, like Conwell, but obviously lacks both the means and the pedigree to acquire a proper gentlemans education. He comes to pastor Conwell, asking for help. Can an everlasting moment of inspiration emanate from one simple act of kindness? Temple Theaters, in conjunction with Temples 125th Anniversary Celebration, presents an original ensemble-created theater piece celebrating Conwells dream, illuminating the life of a man shaped by history and spirit, brought to a soulful encounter with the founding moment. The life of Russell H. Conwell, (1843-1925) founder of Temple College, (eventually to be known as Temple University), was a classic 19th Century American success by all accounts; Civil War veteran, Yale graduate, lawyer, preacher, and a dedicated community leader; noted author and orator a man who believed deeply in the combined power of practicing both spiritual and financial self-improvement as well as cultivating leadership in community a sentiment compellingly captured in Acres of Diamonds, his most popular and sustaining speech (given over 6,000 times). His life and times witnessed the forging of the American character in the crucible of civil war, the expansion of our frontier, and the rise of industrialization, individual wealth and international esteem his was the generation that forged the American Dream.
conceived/directed by Brenna Geffers
commissioned by Provost Lisa Staiano-Coico