Director's Notes:
For productions, directors are charged with coming up with a vision--a concept statement that all elements of the production think about when creating the show. From the moment I read this script, one thing stuck out to me. PERSPECTIVE IS EVERYTHING. This play is based on a true story, a truly horrific story, where a company tried to deny wrongdoing by paying off doctors to write the wrong information on death certificates. With this play, we are introduced to real people of the past. D. W. Gregory created a lens for us to see all of the characters from their perspective. We are introduced to Grace Fryer, who just wants what is fair, and does what she can to fight for what is right. Then we are introduced to Arthur Roeder who sees an opportunity to advance in life by buying a company. We see how he uses advertising to advance his company's business. We see how Roeder struggles with what is right. Both of those characters work at opposite ends of the spectrum. But both of the characters' perspectives are valid. Both perspectives are based on their reality. A perspective that is colored by everything that they have experienced and by the information they have consumed.
As the director, I hope that you leave the theatre having learned more about an important story as well as a knowledge that PERSPECTIVE IS EVERYTHING. I invite you to climb the stairs and look at the set from the top of the seating. Does your perception change at all?
Thank you for supporting the BWHS WESTend Theatre Department! We can't wait to see you at our Spring production! If you want to hear the announcement, be at the closing performance of this production!
To the cast: You are truly amazing. I have loved working with each and every one of you. Please know that you are appreciated. And I value the work and time you have given to be a part of this production. I am proud of you!
To the crew: Thank you for being willing to jump in whenever needed. Thank you for being rockstars and working hard! You are amazing and I can't wait to see where you go in Tech!
To the parents and guardians: Thank you again for allowing us to work with your students. You have truly amazing young adults! Thank you for letting them be invested in this program! Hopefully you will see dividends from all of their work this weekend and in the months to come.
To the production staff: Thank you for giving your all. Thank you for your amazing designs. Thank you for all of your energy and creativity, it is truly appreciated.
To the audience: Thank you for supporting the arts!
Graci Johnson
