Review: History Center's Sold Out 'Visit With the Lincolns' Is First-Rate

The Geneva History Center's visit with the Lincolns on Feb. 19 was sold out and for good reason. It was a first-class, emotional show and one we hope will be an annual event in Geneva.

Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, expertly played by Debra Miller and Michael Krebs, took audience members on an interactive journey back in time to the 1800s, at the end of the Civil War.

The audence spends an intimate 60 minutes with the presidential couple, enjoying an interactive story that is full of humor, inspiration and emotion.

To begin, Lincoln spoke of the splendid fashion the crowd was sporting and even started in on the lawyer jokes. "Of course you know why they call it practicing law, don't you?" he said. "Because they never get it exactly right."

Despite Mary's efforts to have Lincoln stop "imposing upon the guests," Lincoln explained that at least there would be a handful of people in this room who would know the truth. Through powerful, memorable acting, the audience learns that right is might and those who lost their lives in the war did not do so in vain.

"We all have the power to stay dedicated to the unfinished work of those who gave their last full measure of devotion—to finish the great task that still remains."

On the weekend of Presidents Day, audience members left with a greater appreciation for this monumental time in history, with help from a legendary couple. 

"Tears started to roll down my face," one member of the audience said during the question-and-answer period that followed the presentation.

The show was that good. Presented here, for those who could not attend, is a photo recap of an entertaining afternoon in Geneva.