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DIRECTOR'S NOTES

Sometimes, nothing really goes as planned in this business. 'Awkward Conversations Witn Animals I've F*cked' was not a show we had planned to produce at all. In fact, we were thinking of doing a musical, we had for awhile. As always, in theatre, there are many factors that go into putting on a show and it turned out not to be the time for that particular piece. There was a void in our artistic ventures. I wasn't sure where I was going to be in the fall and my collaborators didn't know if they had work coming up, so we had nothing to share with audiences. 

A few years ago, I came across 'Awkward Convos...' in a Foyle's bookshop in London. I was struck by the title and bought it, not knowing how smart, clever and entertaining a piece it would be. I loved it, every second of it. I knew that one day, I would do something with it...Didn't I say there was a void? I am continuing my studies in the Fall and saw this show as a vehicle for strengthening my training, for continuing our efforts with Stages, and for showcasing a small but talented group of emerging artists. The timing felt right and on the journey we went. Sometimes, there are positives in nothing going on as planned. 

I won't say too much about the show, I am mostly curious about the way audiences will respond to a broader universal message of love. I think the story speaks to a lot of 'human animals' but how interesting to think about the creation of similar emotional and spiritual connections with 'non-human animals'....and well for Bobby, a little bit of a physical connection too.

Even a 'simple' show like this on paper takes an army of collaborators and I want to thank all of them. To my designers who have created and made the world I came up with in my mind an even better place for Bobby to love. To stage management, for keeping me on track and keeping the machine moving forward. To all my friends for supporting me always in my artistic adventures. Finally, to Chris Lam, for coming on board this wild journey with me. A one-man show is an extremly diffuclt exercise. I'd love to say this wasn't a scary and crazy process because of it, but fuck that. It was hard. As I am writing this, we have a few days until opening and I am reflecting, sure, but mostly thinking about how scared and excited I am about the next days few of work, where everything will come together for you, the person reading this, our audience.

So thank YOU, for choosing us. And for your support. Without it, we can't tell you stories like the one you're about to live. Until next time!

CORY HAAS

Artistic Director

Stages Theatre Co.