“Cartoons & Conversation: A Visit with Ding Darling" at the German American Heritage Center -- March 27.
Sunday, March 27, 2 p.m.
German American Heritage Center, 712 West Second Street, Davenport IA
The fascinating life of a longtime Iowa resident, Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist, and close friend to Walt Disney will be explored in a March 27 presentation hosted by the German American Heritage Center, with the Davenport venue hosting the special live event Cartoons & Conversation: A Visit with Ding Darling, a solo performance piece written by and starring Midwestern stage talent Tom Milligan.
In Cartoons & Conversation, Jay N. “Ding” Darling visits with the audience, cast in the "role" of an old friend, in his 11th office at the Des Moines Register. Beginning with his early years in Sioux City – where, as a young boy, he became aware of the natural world around him while developing skills as an editorial cartoonist – Darling recalls his remarkable life journey, his story continuing to include two Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoons for the Register and a remarkable career as a nationally known conservationist. From the introduction of the Duck Stamp to the creation of the National Wildlife Federation, Darling’s influence was felt not only through his cartoons, but by his actions. And considered by many to be one of the most important members of the modern conservation movement in the first half of the 20th century, the impact of Darling's multitudinous works is still felt today.
Portraying Darling in his German American Heritage Center presentation is Tom Milligan, who has spent 45 years as a professional theatre artist in Iowa. As an actor, director, scenic designer, and producer, his accomplishments have been seen throughout Iowa and the Midwest. Beginning in 1973, many remember his work at Iowa’s first dinner theater, Charlie’s Showplace, in Des Moines, and over the years, Milligan has been on staff at the Des Moines Playhouse, the Ingersoll Dinner Theater, the Drake Opera, the Hoyt Sherman Theater, the Drama Workshop, and other venues in the Des Moines area. In 2005, Milligan moved to the Amana Colonies and worked on multiple productions at the Old Creamery Theater and Iowa Theater Artists Company, as well as on many self-produced productions. His 16-year association with Humanities Iowa reflects Milligan's passion for both theatre and history through his unique one-man-play presentations.
Tom Milligan's 45-minute program Cartoons & Conversation: A Visit with Ding Darling will be presented at the German American Heritage Center on March 27, admission to the 2 p.m. event is free, and more information is available by calling (563)322-8844 and visiting GAHC.org.
