I REMEMBER MAMA by John Van Druten

Performed here by the Metropolitan Theatre Ensemble, Mama is based on Kathryn Forbes’ fictionalized memoir of growing up with a loving family of Norwegian immigrants in San Francisco in the early years of the 20th century. First produced on Broadway in 1944 (Marlon Brando originated the role of young Nels), the play offers no earth-shaking dramatic fireworks, yet it became an American classic for capturing the family’s small joys, sorrows, and aspirations. I Remember Mama became a hit 1948 film and spawned a popular television series that ran from 1948 to 1957.