New Ulm Mayor Kathleen Backer (right) presents welcome gifts to German playwright Erich Becker (left) and his wife, American harpist Valerie Cribbs (center), during a reception ahead of the North American premiere of Becker’s “A Life for the Revolution” at State Street Theater. (Photo by Shannon Magers)

NEW ULM — Playwright Erich Becker and his wife, American professional harpist Valerie Cribbs, received a welcome reception at State Street Theater, Tuesday.

The welcome comes ahead of the North American premiere of Becker’s play, “A Life for the Revolution”

The play tells the story of Ludwig Bogen (1809-1886), a German revolutionary who participated in the 1848 uprisings, served in the Frankfurt National Assembly, and faced persecution before immigrating to the United States. 

He settled in New Ulm, where he became editor and publisher of the German-language New Ulm Post and a community leader advocating for reform, fairness and free expression.

The gathering brought together local officials, members of the Brown County Historical Society, the German Bohemian Heritage Society, the Sister Cities Commission, as well as cast members for “A Life for the Revolution” and board members of State Street Theater.

“It’s so great to have both Erich and Valerie here with us,” said New Ulm Mayor Kathleen Backer.

Backer presented gifted the couple a copy of the book “A German Town: A History of New Ulm, Minnesota” by Daniel Hoisington, which was produced for the city’s 150th anniversary, and highlighted the connections between the visitors and the community.

“I am very proud to be here and I’m very proud that my piece about Ludwig Bogen will be performed Saturday,” Becker said to the audience. He also spoke of the importance of free speech and free expression.

Cribbs, recounted that her husband once told her, “If I had to go live in the United States, I would want to live in New Ulm.” 

Cribbs will play the harp during scene transitions in the production.

During the reception, speakers described the collaboration among the theater, the historical society, participants in the German Evening signs project, civic groups and the Sister Cities organization to preserve local heritage.

Lorie Jewell, the theater’s executive director who joined the staff more than two years ago, received thanks from board members. 

Board President Mary Ellen Domeier said they recognized her work directing the production and coordinating with multiple organizations after she handled administrative and financial responsibilities.

Later in the week, German friends of the Beckers who performed in the original play production in Germany will fly in and join the cast. The cast will incorporate them into scenes during the final three days of rehearsal.

Jewell encouraged the audience to attend, saying Becker and Cribbs themselves will join the cast onstage.

The production continues efforts to bring international theatrical works and cultural exchange to the community.

Performances of A Life for the Revolution are scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday, May 16 and 2 p.m. Sunday, May 17 at the State Street Theater.

Following the Sunday 2 p.m. performance, Becker will host a Playwright “Talk Back” question and answer session.a