Hello and thank you for joining us at this performance.
First, I want you to know that there is nothing like presenting a play or musical in front of a live audience. I have never been a fan of plays on video as it loses so much when there is not that energy from a live audience and vice-versa from the actors. All but three rehearsals were on “Zoom” so not having the human contact needed was an obstacle, but we did overcome.
Secondly, presenting a play that has historical elements can sometimes be challenging. A director is dealing with not only the physical elements needed but the attitudes of the time---in this case 1965. Casting The Meeting was no easy task to say the least but, in the end, the best choices were made to bring this work to life on stage (video) in an exciting and informative production. If you lived during those times of these two important powerful men in a time that was brutal and insane for the African American, you know what I mean. Living in Birmingham, Alabama in the early 60's to the early 70's I experienced horrible treatment and brutality of our black brothers and sisters. Being harassed by police whenever we were out together minding our own business is something that will live with me forever. To see my black friends, shake and cry whenever we were questioned by the police for no reason (other than being together) was frightening. To see German Shepherd dogs released on people was disturbing and the “wash downs” were cruel as well. Before those years I was a military brat living on military bases with my military family in Europe. We were taught none of what was going on in the United States---there were no for "WHITES ONLY” signs anywhere---it was very confusing and hurtful to come back to this country and see the truth. Yes, I have had my experience with this, and that experience gave me the courage to direct this play. There is so much not in this play that I wanted to present...to say...to show but maybe another time. I have personal reasons for bringing this up, but I felt it necessary. This was and is only the tip of the "iceberg" as we still see that hatred today. We hope you can get the significance from days so far away in our past to those that we are living now.
I would like to thank my actors for giving so much attention and love to these real life figures, as well as the Board of Point Loma Playhouse for supporting this project. Also, my crew who gave of their time to be sure we had a place to play. Hopefully, life will get back to normal and our stages will once again, along with our passions will come to fruition.
Thank you for your support with our production. Keeping theatre moving in a positive direction should be a concern for all of us during these difficult times.
Be well. Be safe.
Jerry Pilato
