DIRECTOR'S NOTE
Hey Y’all!
First, let me thank you for supporting SCP and community theatre by being in our audience today. Without you, there would be no show.
Crimes of the Heart has been very special to me since I performed one of Lenny’s monologues for a contemporary acting class at MSU in the early aughts. I fell in love with the depth and richness of the script. There are so many unspoken words and meanings running through the lines on the page. It’s my very favorite kind of play, funny and heartbreaking and hopeful, all rolled into one.
Directing this show did not come without challenges. The subject matter is dark. There is talk of extreme mental health crises including suicide, and since this is a period piece, there are some very uncomfortable moments that have gotten more uncomfortable the farther away from 1974 we’ve moved. The cast and I worked together to dig deeper and get to the root of the issues at play, and figure out a way to present them that works within our current society’s mindset. I’m extremely proud of the work we put in and how it’s turned out.
The easy part was working with the actors, what a phenomenally talented group! These six are a directors dream. Every single one of them took their characters and ran. They have bonded in a way that is palpable when they’re onstage together. I am filled to the brim with pride and happiness with the work they’ve done.
It took a lot of man hours working on this show; building and dressing the set was a feat. Every member of the design and production team was instrumental in the show you’re about to see. It was never easy, but it also never felt like work. I am forever grateful to this team, from top to bottom.
Watching this show for me is like watching a wish I made on my birthday candles come true before my very eyes. I hope you feel the same.
Thank you again for coming, I truly hope you enjoy the show.
--Josie Stec, Director, Crimes of the Heart
