Trilogy Repertory Theatre is proud to present Horton Foote’s timeless and poignant play, Trip to Bountiful. A deeply moving and richly crafted story, the play delves into themes of longing, memory, family, and the search for personal freedom in the later years of life.
Set in the 1940s, Trip to Bountiful centers around Carrie Watts, an elderly woman who finds herself trapped in a small, oppressive apartment in Houston. Living with her overprotective son, Ludie, and his domineering wife, Jessie Mae, Carrie’s once-vibrant life is now constrained by the walls of her urban existence. Despite the well-meaning, but stifling, care provided by Ludie and Jessie Mae, Carrie’s heart yearns for the open skies and familiar streets of her childhood home in Bountiful, Texas.
With each passing day, Carrie grows more restless and determined. As her son is away at work and her daughter-in-law runs errands, Carrie seizes the opportunity to escape the confines of the apartment. She makes her way to the bus station, where she meets Thelma, a young woman who is both intrigued by Carrie’s story and eager to help her. Together, they begin an unlikely journey toward Bountiful—Carrie’s final pilgrimage to the place she has longed for throughout her later years.
However, when Carrie finally arrives in Harrison, Texas, just short of Bountiful, she is confronted with the harsh reality that her beloved town is not the same as she remembered. The familiar landmarks of her youth have changed, and the passage of time has left its mark on the town, as well as on Carrie herself. What follows is a profound exploration of identity, the fragility of memory, and the deep-seated emotional bonds that both connect and divide families.
A Story of Heartfelt Yearning and Rediscovery
Trip to Bountiful is not only a powerful exploration of an individual’s search for home but also a touching meditation on the complex dynamics of family life. Carrie’s quest is driven by her desire to reconnect with her past, and in doing so, the play highlights the generational struggles that arise when a loved one’s wishes seem to clash with the well-intentioned care of others. Foote’s script paints a vivid portrait of a woman at a crossroads, caught between the comfort of the present and the pull of the past.
As Carrie’s journey unfolds, the play reveals her deeper struggles—her longing to be free from the oppressive caretaking of her son and daughter-in-law, her desperate need for autonomy, and the profound sense of loss she feels as she comes to terms with her age. Carrie’s bond with Thelma adds a layer of warmth and hope to the narrative, with their friendship representing the unexpected connections that can arise even in the later stages of life.
A Moving Performance
Trilogy Rep’s production of Trip to Bountiful promises to be an unforgettable theatrical experience. Under the direction of seasoned professionals, the talented cast brings to life Horton Foote’s delicate and heartfelt characters, infusing the production with emotional depth and authenticity. The audience will be taken on an emotional journey through Carrie’s past and present, experiencing the highs and lows of her quest to reclaim her own sense of self.
The set design will evoke the sense of both a cramped, oppressive apartment and the wide, open spaces of rural Texas, creating a striking contrast between the stifling environment Carrie seeks to escape and the freedom she longs to rediscover. Foote’s rich dialogue and nuanced character development will be brought to life with performances that highlight both the humor and sadness in the story.
A Timeless Message
At its core, Trip to Bountiful is a celebration of resilience, hope, and the strength of the human spirit. Carrie’s journey is about more than just reaching a physical destination—it is about coming to terms with the passage of time, finding peace within oneself, and seeking reconciliation with both the past and the present. Through Carrie’s eyes, we are reminded of the importance of honoring our memories, pursuing our dreams, and cherishing the moments that define us, no matter how much time has passed.
Join Trilogy Rep for a performance of Trip to Bountiful, a story that resonates with audiences of all ages. Whether you are drawn to the themes of family, personal freedom, or the enduring power of home, this production offers a moving reflection on the human experience that will leave you reflecting on the meaning of your own journey. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt, unforgettable theatrical event!
