B-UHS library hosts Mark Twain impersonator

Throughout the school year, Buckhannon-Upshur High School’s library has held different activities for students. These events have kept students engaged, shaken up their school days, and have taught them valuable lessons. The presentations, open to the majority of the student body, range from ghost story tellers, academic lectures, and a visit from Mark Twain—sort of.

Not long ago, a historical character impersonator came dressed as famous author Mark Twain, who was most celebrated for his books, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.   “I’ve toured his house and I’ve read his books. I have a pretty good idea who Mark Twain was,” Patty Miller said, talking about her familiarity with Twain before the presentation. 

Mark Twain sauntered onto the stage and promptly poured himself a drink. He gurgled and introduced himself, then delved into an explanation of “his” life story with a drawn out Southern twang.

“I think he did a good job staying in character; he was really authentic,” Lexie Dalton commented on the performance’s quality. 

Throughout the performance, there were numerous references to Twain’s writing. For example, he’s infamous for stretching the truth in his stories; he’s also known for his unbelievably adventurous stories. The actor pushed the truth in his story of Mark Twain, exaggerating much of what he said. 

“I don’t like his writing at all. It’s basic and it reminds me of elementary school writing. I don’t understand why it’s such a big deal,” Miller stated.

Toward the end of Mr. Twain’s performance, students were given the opportunity to ask questions. The students didn’t take it very seriously. Questions like “Do you brush your mustache?” and “Why do you look like Colonel Sanders?” were tossed around. Twain’s impersonator was a good sport about it, responding to every question exactly as Mark Twain would have.

“People were being very rude and disrespectful to him when they asked those stupid joke questions,” Shelby Daugherty stated. 

He wrapped up the presentation by finally breaking character and introducing himself. He continued to talk to the crowd and when the bell rang, everyone left happily chattering about the presentation. “The presentation was pretty good, and I didn’t think it was completely boring,” Lexie said, sharing her final thoughts on the overall presentation.