A Transformation of the Heart : Larry Hicks
Larry Hicks, “Christmas Fairytales”, Mary C. Arts and Cultural Center, Ocean Springs, MS
Even as a young boy living on a farm in Virginia, Larry Hicks loved books. There was something magical about the cracking open of that leather spine, the smell of the musty pages, and the tiny black words that could transport him to a world beyond the itchy hay bale that he sat on in the summer sun. As he grew older, he dreamed of seeing some of those places he had only read about. He felt called to ministry and went to Moody Bible Institute where he met his wife. Soon, he was the pastor of his own church with two young daughters (one of them is a founder of the Museum of Make Believe). Anybody who came to his office would immediately see bookshelves filled to the brim with every sort of book imaginable.
Larry Hicks, “Christmas Fairytales”, Mary C. Arts and Cultural Center, Ocean Springs, MS
It wasn’t long before Larry felt ready to take his young family on the journey of a lifetime. He joined the Navy as a Chaplain and off they went, exploring far away places like Japan and Iceland. And always there was a book in his hand. One author in particular, he always came back to…Charles Dickens. The way he developed characters was so incredible, some with silly names like Pleasant Riderhood, but all fascinating and all painting a clear picture of both the good and bad in people.
Larry Hicks and assorted friends at “A Fairytale Afternoon”, Time Machine Museum, Tucson, AZ
After Larry retired from the Navy, he decided to dive deeper into his love of Dickens by regularly attending the Dickens Universe in Santa Cruz. And now you can ask him just about anything about Charles Dickens and he will be able to answer you. In fact, next time you see him at one of our events, ask him about Dickens’ pet raven and how that inspired Edgar Allen Poe.
Larry Hicks, “An Enchanted Fairy Tale Afternoon”, Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center, Anaheim, CA
We have been fortunate that Larry has shared his expertise with us for the last five years, taking part in our events as Charles Dickens or one of his classic characters. At every performance we learn something new and leave feeling more inspired to make the world a better place.
Larry and Judy Hicks, “Red Poppies on the Moon” float, Anaheim Halloween Parade, Anaheim, CA
Larry Hicks, “Red Poppies on the Moon” float, Anaheim Halloween Parade, Anaheim, CA
Over the past five years, Larry has shown up in all sorts of places as a part of the Museum of Make Believe, from the deep South, the American Western desert, to the downtown streets of Anaheim marching in the parade. This last holiday season, he even taught our audience how to make the famous “A Christmas Carol” smoking bishop punch and introduced the great-great grandson of Charles Dickens! You never know where he will turn up next. In the meantime, enjoy this special performance by Larry. We thank him for taking us back in time and teaching us so many valuable lessons!