Coop, A Story of an Amish Conscientious Objector

An Object Theatre Drama by Mary Swander

Join us for a special presentation of Mary Swander's new play - Coop, starring Rip Russell.

Coop is historical fiction, an enactment of true stories of Amish, Mennonite, and other conscientious objectors during WWI and WWII. The core story is taken from the oral history of a young Amish farmer draftee who boarded a train with other C.O.s—Mennonites, Quakers, Church of the Brethren, and Seventh Day Adventists–during World War II. This group of C.O.s, told they were bound to fight forest fires in Colorado, were interned instead in a chicken coop. There, they remained under guard for the rest of the war.

The play, masterfully performed by Rip Russell, is a one-person performance staged on a table with everyday objects representing the characters in the show. Object theatre. Russell pantomimes the action to a narration filled with music, sound effects and excerpts from old news reels. Come and watch traffic cones, dusters, balloons, and clothespins come to life, creating this gripping drama of the challenges German-speaking conscientious objectors endured. 

Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre Company is proud to present Coop at Owl Glass Puppetry Center (319 N. Calhoun Street), Thursday January 22nd 2026 at 7:00 pm. Tickets may be reserved in advance for $12 by calling 319 627-2487, or email owlglasspuppets@gmail.com. Limited tickets may be available at the door for $15.