From left, “Changed” actors Kaitlyn Couch, as Detective Jones, struggles with her abductor Dan, played by April Hackler, while Savannah Kelly’s character, as the murdered victim’s daughter, Tessa, waits for potential harm. The play’s writer, 15 year-old Bailey Hufstetler, said that the play’s dramatic theme about child abduction was inspired by the tragic death of toddler Landon Robbins in Rhea County earlier this year.IF YOU GO* What: “Changed,” a play about murder and a child’s abduction* When: Today at 7:30 p.m.* Where: Tennessee Valley Theatre, Spring City, Tenn.* Admission: Tickets are $5* Learn more: Contact Bailey Hufstetler at 423-618-6944, bailey.heroesandangels@gmail.com or visit www.heroesandangels.net.
SPRING CITY, Tenn. – For 15-year-old playwright Bailey Hufstetler, tackling dramatic themes in his play “Changed” was inspired by the tragic loss of 5-year-old Rhea County resident Landon Robbins earlier this year.
“It was born out of a tragedy,” Hufstetler said this week after a dress rehearsal.
The play, Hufstetler’s second, deals with the tragic death of a young mother named Carrie and the abduction of her daughter, Tessa. Detectives investigate the slaying and try to locate the child before another one occurs.
Landon died after being forced to drink liquid soap and eat cigarette butts, according to investigators. His mother, Jessica Robbins, and her boyfriend, Bradley Adcox, face felony charges including first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse in the case.