Ireland is a country crackling with the raw energy of the natural world, so much so that generations of fiery-haired natives can give you detailed information about the various spirits, sprites, and fairies that inhabit the area, and others we might not even see. One Irish expatriate made a career out of sharing her intimate knowledge of these mysterious powers and entities in the United States, eventually settling in Oceano near the Dunes, which she perceived to hold just as much power as her homeland.
Ella Young is the subject of the South County Historical Society’s current readers’ theater production of Do You Believe in Fairies? Ella Young, Mystic of the Dunes. The play is performed on Saturdays at 2 p.m. through the month of July and is free for any who want to view the entertaining and informative show.
The historic Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) Hall, which serves as headquarters for the South County Historical Society, is where the locals can catch the show. The old sandstone building is filled with historical artifacts, old-fashioned chairs, and an odd couch or two. It’s a cool, comfortable hall in which to enjoy a show, and if you arrive early or stay late, you can view the photographic exhibit SLO Pano by Brian Lawler, which showcases large panoramic images of favorite locations and natural wonders in San Luis Obispo County.
Do You Believe in Fairies? Ella Young, Mystic of the Dunes was made possible by Jan Scott, the curator of the South County Historical Society, and producer, director, and writer of the show. The script follows a biographical and autobiographical path, with Young’s own memoir serving as a primary text for much of the direct quotes from the figure.
Deb Rowlands and Eva Ulz share the stage, with Rowlands serving as narrator and supporting characters, and Ulz embodying Young. The script includes dialogues and musings from the mystic, and information about Young’s life, including her involvement with the Dunites.
The Dunites were a group of artists, intellectuals, and mystics who lived on or near the Dunes between Guadalupe and Pismo Beach in the 1920s and ’30s. One of the most famous Dunites was Gavin Arthur, born Chester Alan Arthur III. He was the grandson of U.S. President Chester Arthur, and actually changed his name to Gavin after spending time in Ireland, where he met Young. The two would later connect again over the dunes, as Do You Believe in Fairies? relates in detail.
Rowlands and Ulz share the stage well. Rowlands has a long history with the stage; this show is her sixth with the historical society. The production is Ulz’s first foray into live theater, but her interest in history, lecture, and poetry shows in her embodiment of the sagely yet ethereal Young.
Do You Believe in Fairies? Ella Young, Mystic of the Dunes is a great show to enjoy on a Saturday afternoon. Clocking in at a little under an hour, the show is packed with interesting information regarding local historical figures, Young’s musings on elemental spirits, and poetry. The former UC Berkeley scholar’s insight and character shine through in this well-crafted readers’ theater experience. The play runs through the month, followed by Gold Rush in Oceano? The Story of the ELG in August.
Arts Editor Joe Payne has never been convinced Faeries don’t exist. Contact him at jpayne@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Jul 3-10, 2014.