Handprints
Written and performed by Greta Oglesby
Music Director: Sanford Moore
Directed by Richard D. Thompson
January 27–February 18, 2024
Content warning: Child endangerment and disciplinary actions. Mild language.
A powerful and vibrant autobiographical story written and performed by one of the Twin Cities' most renowned theater artists, Greta Oglesby. Based on her book titled Mama ‘n ‘Nem, Handprints on My Life, this production is a love letter to the ordinary, yet extraordinary people who shaped her life. From her life in Chicago to making her mark here in Minnesota onstage and in her community, experience the gift of Greta’s story with unique storytelling including the gorgeous music that has inspired the person she is today.
"Handprints" sits at an interesting intersection of musical, song cycle and TED talk. It balances them in ways that doesn't feel hokey; instead, it is intimate and engaging, aided by Oglesby's incredible singing voice (Twin Cities jazz pianist Sanford Moore accompanies Oglesby). MPR
"Oglesby shares her story with generosity and gratitude. As she talks and sings, you can feel the love that made her, and that she gives." Star Tribune
"It's a funny, touching, relatable story, that reminds us of the people in our lives who teach us things that we carry with us all of our lives, like handprints on our hearts." Cherry and Spoon
"Handprints is a deeply personal gift to the audience. It is a joyful and uplifting performance that had the audience on their feet before the curtain call even began." The Stages of MN
"She emits a serenity and wisdom that makes being in the room with her feel more like a blessing than a performance." Talkin' Broadway
"Oglesby proves an engaging conversationalist throughout Handprints, finding some very touching touchstones along the way." Pioneer Press
Read the Reviews
- Something very special has been taking place at History Theatre (MPR, 2/10/24)
- Greta Oglesby converts hurt to honey (Star Tribune, 2/1/24)
- Greta Oglesby shares songs in her heart (Pioneer Press, 1/29/24)
- A funny, touching, relatable story (cherryandspoon, 2/6/24)
- Handprints writer and star Greta Oglesby shines at History Theatre (thestagesofmn, 1/28/24)
- Wherever, whenever she appears, she makes an impression (Talkin' Broadway, 2/1/24)
Audiences Call It
- This show was FANTASTIC! It may be my season favorite so far! And I love all the HT shows!
- An exceptional piece of writing, staging, performing. I've followed Greta Oglesby as she's performed in plays in the cities for some time and was thrilled to learn of her journey through stories and song. I've spread the word among friends with an enthusiastic thumbs-up.
- Absolutely one of the best productions we’ve ever seen at History Theatre!
- I have loved every show I've seen and have loved learning about history through music, laughter, and tears!
Learn more about the show
- 'Handprints' captures an artist coming of age (Spokesman-Recorder, 2/12/24)
- A rather unique look at the artist's process (MinnPost, 2/8/24)
- 'Handprints' captures family legacy of strong father (Power 104.7 FM, 1/26/24)
- 'Handprints' sketches an actor's life from church to stage (Star Tribune, 1/23/24)
- People to Watch: Greta Oglesby (American Theatre, Winter 2024)
- Veteran actress and playwright thrives in Twin Cities theater scene (Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, 1/2/24)
Meet the Cast
Watch Preview of "Handprints"
Read the playbill
