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Before I begin, you need to know that this is not a synopsis of this play. I recommend that you read the play to learn about the play.
I am truly honored to direct “Death of a Salesman.” Thank you, Corn Stock. It has been over 20 years since I have acted, directed, built, painted etc. for plays, and worked as night security here at Corn Stock! I left Illinois to be closer to my children and to teach in Wisconsin. While I was gone, I kept in contact with my many theatre friends. Also, my dearest friends passed away – Jeff Sloter and Dan Allar. It is in their honor that I do this show.
Many times, the three of us talked about shows we should do together, especially “Death of a Salesman.” We just could not figure out who would direct, who would play Willy and who would be the stage manager. The banter amongst us was playful, and at the same time meaningful. Now we turn to this time period. Throughout the rehearsals, and the performances their words will be said and hopefully become a permanent part of our lives. Jeff had many theatre phrases that he used when directing, and one that I remember is “a play needs to have strong production values.” I interpreted the phrase to mean that a production must have high, solid, great production aspects, acting, set, costumes, lights, props etc. for it to marvel and move an audience. He was right then, and I will ensure that this play succeeds in those aspects. In addition, Dan always said that the “play is the thing.” Thank you, Shakespeare. Thank you, Dan., The cast, crew, and staff of this play will focus on the play. Meaning – we will discuss and share the family drama that moves the narrative. Arthur Miller wanted his plays to have a universal meaning, not a political statement. When “Death of Salesman” was first performed in 1949 debates arose “in which attempts were made to justify or dismiss the play as a Left-Wing piece, or as a Right-Wing manifestation of decadence. The presumption underlying both views is that a work of art is the sum of its author’s political outlook. I do not believe this, either for my own or other writer’s work…therefore, a play as though it were the objective work of a propagandist is nonsense. (A. Miller). Miller was right then and even now. Today politics divides people and for this show I want to bring people together in honor of Jeff and Dan. We can do this if we leave our politics at the door and connect with each other as actors, techies, and friends. If we can do this Dan Allar’s words can ring throughout our lives and our play – “It’s all good.”