The Olympics & Big River. Next: Susan and God

I’m pleased to say that our Big River got more gold medals than…the Russian Federation, and I think it was much better attended than some of those gymnastic meets I watched late at night. So, despite some mid-run angst, the show went very, very well and exceeded its attendance and revenue goals. We still have thinking to do in the coming years about marketing and connecting with our patrons and yet-to-be-patrons.  But having spoken with a woman on closing night who had attended 5 times in 7 weeks (!!), some of my confidence is restored in the general public’s need for fun, social engagement and wonder which theatre provides by the bushel.

Tonight we begin rehearsals for Susan and God by Rachel Crothers, a play written in the 1930s, and revived Off-Broadway in 2006 by the Mint Theatre and at Lambs Players (San Diego) in 2007. Social satire and comedy were Ms. Crother’s delights, and Susan skewers people who are self-indulgent … whose obsessions even with “good causes” validate neglecting one’s family. The play has several marriages, relationships and friendships that twist and turn according to the distractions of work, affection and religiosity. Interestingly, Susan’s daughter is aptly named Blossom: blossoms can thrive or fail based on how they’re treated. The play has a banter like Noel Coward, but has higher hopes for the characters’ marriages than comic fodder. Susan opens September 26th, and so we have plenty of time – I hope – to explore the play. More to come.