"The Miracle Worker," the story of young Helen Keller and the teacher who led her into the light of intellectual awareness, has inspired audiences for half a century. William Gibson's lean and accessible play first won accolades on television in 1957, then conquered Broadway and Hollywood a few years later.

Springfield Little Theatre's striking new production, directed with understated conviction by Karen Luna, continues that winning tradition. Solid acting and elegant stagecraft bring the work to life in ways that are sure to appeal to audiences of all ages. In fact, parents might consider introducing their children to drama with this play. It's the rare instance of an adult show that aims a spotlight on a character with whom youngsters can identify.

Saturday's matinee performance was enhanced by one of the most attentive and responsive audiences I can recall. Several hundred elementary schoolchildren laughed at the funny moments, then grew quiet when more serious events were at hand. They seemed to intuit Helen's latent intelligence and the expressive power of her willful behavior. When Helen spat her food at Annie Sullivan during the famous breakfast room battle of wills, a small boy behind me uttered an approving "Gotcha!," while his buddy chimed in with "Burn!" There was no rancor in their voices, just loyal support for a comrade-in-arms.

The fact that Helen spoke both to and for them was a tribute to 11-year-old Natalie Wegenka, who ably communicated the deaf and blind girl's passion through her skillful pantomime.

Anna F. Martin, who zinged as stripper Mazeppa in last September's "Gypsy," does a complete and convincing turnabout as Helen's legendary teacher. She speaks softly with a lilting Irish accent, but the woman's inner steel is never in doubt, even when voices from the past emerge to test her resolve. Her calm, lovely singing of "Hush Little Baby" conveyed that inner strength as it gently lulled the audience into a rapt and respectful silence.

Annie's "war" isn't with Helen alone. Other opponents include the stubborn Captain Keller and his skeptical son James. Michael Frizell is appealing as a testy man caught up in lost battles of the Civil War, while Seth Hunt pleases as a weak but sympathetic figure whose emotional growth mirrors Helen's. Julie Davis is warmly maternal as Kate Keller, then more assertive as she finds her own voice.

The entire cast performs well, including 11-year-old Hawkeye, the golden retriever whose outing in SLT's 2002 "Annie" was equally professional.

Chuck Rogers' nimble set design stands out in bold relief against a pitch black background and is matched in beauty by Anthony Pratt's tasteful period costumes.

"The Miracle Worker" continues through March 23 at the Landers Theatre, 311 E. Walnut St. For tickets ($15-$23), call 869-1334.