Sacred Hearts Salutes Saint

Under the direction of Modesto Cordero, the drama November’s Song seeks to honor and portray the story of new saint Mother Marianne as it truly happened.

Presented by the Spirit-Led Drama Club of St. John Apostle & Evangelist Catholic Church, the production will celebrate St.

Marianne Cope, OSF, at 8 p.m. Nov. 16 and 3:30 and 8 p.m. Nov. 17 in the Sacred Hearts Academy’s auditorium. General admission is $10 and tickets can be purchased at novembersong2012.eventbrite.com.

This play by George Herman features Cope as she recalls her journey from Syracuse to Hawaii and her passion and resolve to care for the sick and poor outcasts. Nothing prepares her, however, for the moment when she sees a person with leprosy for the first time.

“The cast and director of the show wish to express their most sincere apologies and assurance of their deepest respect and compassion to all the patients and family members of this horrible disease, as the word ‘leper’ is repeatedly used throughout the show,” said Cordero, noting that it reflects the times and dialogue of the characters.

Cordero also directs the office of worship for the Catholic Diocese of Honolulu, and is deacon at the St. John church in Mililani.

The cast includes Eva Andrade as St. Marianne, as well as Gary Manz, Nydia A. Santiago-Cordero, Margaret Higa, Brooke Albete, Cheyenne Daves, Charmaine Garcia and Sister Marie Jose Romano, Bethany Higa, Sofia Garcia and Marianne Garcia.

“The show brings an opportunity for the audience to learn more about the life of this wonderful woman and all the obstacles she encountered in making her way to Kalaupapa, as female nurses weren’t allowed in the settlement,” Cordero said.