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It is a gracious and relevant story that offers you unique access to the most famous address in the nation in Looking Over the President’s Shoulder. Jasper McGruder stars in the play based on the authentic writings of Alonzo Fields and written by James Still.more >
Alonzo Fields kept a diary while working at the White House from 1932—1953 and described his experience as “being in the front row and watching a passing parade of history.
Show Reviews
My wife and I saw "Looking over the President's Shoulder" Friday night. This is one of the best plays we have ever seen at Barter and we have seen many great plays at the Barter. Jasper McGruder's performance was so outstanding that we felt he was actually Alonzo Fields! The 360 Panel was very informative and interesting. GREAT JOB by all.more > — Russ Hauver via Facebook.com/BarterTheatre
I am thrilled to give it "two thumbs up!" Not only was the story great and the acting superb, but I learned alot of history.more > — Kristina K. Morris via Facebook.com/BarterTheatre
I cannot recommend this play strongly enough. It is a timeless story for all ages, pure joy to see, and a story and performance you will remember long after the curtain falls.more > — Robert McKinney, Bristol Herald Courier
Brilliant story and so well told by Jasper [McGruder]. 5 stars.more > — Clifford Salyer via Facebook.com/BarterTheatre
Jasper McGruder was perfect for the part of Alonzo Fields. There were a few times I actually thought he WAS Mr. Fields, he was so in character. Thanks for a great look into history.more > — Christa Swiney via Facebook.com/BarterTheatre
Jasper McGruder was amazing in Looking Over the President's Shoulder. Great storytelling and emotion.more > — Brian Shoemaker via Facebook.com/BarterTheatre
McGruder draws you in with his leering narrative voice. As he impeccably articulates every syllable of his two hours of dialogue, you feel every emotion expressed by his character.more > — Zach Cooley, Wytheville Enterprise
A captivating and moving dramatic performance which revealed in a most interesting way the personalities of those who lived in and visited the White House from 1932-1953, when the character - Alonzo Fields - served as Chief Butler (all but his first year).more > — via TripAdvisor
The reviews are in and folks LOVE Jasper McGruder in "Looking Over the President's Shoulder"!more > — Via Survey
Looking Over the President's Shoulder
By James Still
"The Oval Office Through the Eyes of a Man Who Served Four Presidents" Based on the real-life story of Alonzo Fields, the chief butler at the White House for 21 years during the Hoover, Roosevelt, Truman and Eisenhower administrations. Hailed as a great man with a story to tell, Fields looks on the presidents with respect and without judgment. He describes the experience as “being in the front row and watching the passing parade of history.” Step into the White House and into his story, one filled with humor and pride, that will grant you unique access to the most famous address in the nation brought to life by one of Barter Theatre’s most popular actors. Tickets starting at $26; Ages 17 and under $17.
Stage: Barter Stage II
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"Looking Over The Presidents Shoulder" Commercial
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Jasper McGruder
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Jasper McGruder
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Jasper McGruder
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Jasper McGruder
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Jasper McGruder
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Jasper McGruder
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Jasper McGruder
Cast & Credits
Teachers, click here to download a free study guide
Read more about this play in the Barter Insider Magazine
THE CAST
Alonzo Fields: Jasper McGruder
THE COLLABORATORS
Director: Tricia Matthews
Costume Designer: Amanda Aldridge
Set Designer: Derek Smith
Sound Designer: Miles Polaski
Lighting Designer: Camille Davis
Properties Designer: Helen Stratakes
Stage Manager: John “JP” Pollard
Corporate Sponsor:
BB&T
Media Sponsors:
WAPK-TV; The Business Journal; WRZK-FM; WABN AM & FM; WETS-FM
Season Sponsors:
Alpha Natural Resources, Bristol Virginia Utilities, Eastman Credit Union, Mountain States Health Alliance & The United Company
