Seeking Justice and Hearing Stories at Acacia

MILWAUKEE (February 18, 2026) – “I think we can learn a lot from the women at the center of These Shining Lives and the people who believe them and care,” remarks director Janet Bouman Peterson. “There is hope and love in community when we show up in support.”

A group of women are thrilled to be offered work at Radium Dial Company, making glow-in-the-dark watches. In Ottawa, Illinois in 1922, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime. As their friendship strengthens, their trust in the company erodes, compelling them to a pursuit of the truth. Pulsing with hope and wit, Melanie Marnich’s These Shining Lives is an immortal story of the women’s community and a poetic tribute to every human being’s time on earth.

Acacia’s Artistic Director, Janet Bouman Peterson, helms the production. “I will say this story happened during the Great Depression, and Radium Dial Company was one of the only businesses that didn’t close. People needed it, and that influenced their discernment,” Peterson explains. “We fear the truth so much that we take aim at people who bring it. No one wanted to believe this company, so good for the town’s economy, was actually terrible.”

In spite of the disbelief from the press, the church, and neighbors, Peterson reflects, “the women retained their faith…God calls us to seek justice, love mercy and walk humbly. Are we humble enough to be wrong? Do we right wrongs with kindness? Or do we choose denial and keep going forward with what seems best.”

“If someone tells you they hurt—physically, emotionally, whatever way—first believe them,” Peterson offers. “Yes, there are people who deceive, and you can investigate. But even if it doesn’t fit your narrative, make room for their pain. Hear their stories.”

In keeping with Acacia’s commitment to make theatre more accessible, all tickets for These Shining Lives are pay what you can and may be purchased at www.acaciatheatre.com or by calling 414-744-5995. All performances will be given in The Norvell Commons at St. Christopher’s Church, located at 7845 North River Road, Milwaukee, WI 53217.

Performance dates:
Fri., March 6th at 7:30 PM, Sat., March 7th at 7:30 PM, Sun., March 8th at 3:00 PM, Thu., March 12th at 7:30 PM, Fri., March 13th at 7:30 PM, Sat., March 14th at 4:00 PM, Sun., March 15th at 3:00 PM, Fri., March 20th at 7:30 PM, Sat., March 21st at 4:00 PM, Sun., March 22nd at 3:00 PM

Ticket Information
All performances of These Shining Lives are pay what you can. Tickets can be purchased at www.acaciatheatre.com or by calling 414-744-5995.

About Acacia Theatre Company
Founded in 1980, Acacia Theatre Company is an independent, non-profit, interdenominational group of dramatic artists who share a common desire to integrate art and faith by presenting theatre from a Judeo-Christian worldview. Through uplifting, quality entertainment, Acacia provides occasion for thanksgiving, growth and enjoyment, and the opportunity for Christians and non-Christians to consider their lives in relation to God. More information is available at www.acaciatheatre.com.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.