By Courtney Hess

The Kelton House Museum is hosting two plays presented by the Junior League of Columbus featuring American Girl characters "Addy" and "Samantha."

At 2 p.m. Feb. 28, Kelton House presents Friendship and Freedom, featuring Addy. The story of Addy is heroic and adventurous, as she escapes from her slave owners to start a new life in Philadelphia. Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for children 4 and up.

At 2 p.m. May 16, the Museum presents Actions Speak Louder than Words, featuring Samantha. Samantha’s story takes place in 1904, where she longs for a companion. Samantha befriends the new working girl next door, although their social standings are quite the opposite. Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for children 4 and up.

Both plays are performed by the Imaginating Dramatics Company, located in Grandview Heights. This specific company teaches children the art of acting and, in turn, performs plays and other productions.

The Junior League of Columbus has trained women to be effective volunteers in the community since 1923. The Kelton House Museum and Garden is a community service of the Junior League of Columbus and all proceeds from these productions go toward preserving the historic museum.

“These two plays actually fit perfect with what we’re trying to do,” says Georgeanna Reuter, executive director for the Junior League. “The Museum was actually a stop on the Underground Railroad and the story of Addy fits perfectly. And, although the story of Samantha surpasses the 1850-1900 time period, it still works with the Victorian era of the Museum.”

Today, the Kelton House Museum and Garden offers an ongoing program of house tours, special events and educational opportunities. An active volunteer program provides a training ground for individuals interested in historic preservation, the decorative arts, American History and museum management.

For more information about the Kelton House Museum and Garden log onto www.keltonhouse.com or call 614.464.2022