Day by day, our world appears to be growing increasingly chaotic. It's hard for us to slow down in a time that requires our constant attention and awareness. The ability to relax seems more difficult by the day. I know for me, it would be nice to close out the world for a while.
In The Curious Savage, that is just what the residents of The Cloisters attempt to do. Set in the early 1950s, our residents are in a sanatorium where they can focus on the troubles that ail them. As part of their time there, they do everything they can to avoid the outside world. For them, it's safer to live their lives together and forget the daily stressors that plague society.
Enter Mrs. Savage. A bundle of energy and compassion. She is sent to The Cloisters by her step-children, who are after the ten million dollars their father left to Mrs. Savage, their stepmother. Throughout the play, chaos ensues as Mrs. Savage attempts to prove that her children are the ones who are crazy. Throughout the journey, she discovers that the residents of The Cloisters lead lives of contentment and happiness, a state that many of us strive for.
I initially read this play years ago and have been itching to direct it ever since. The blend of comedy and serious topics creates a compelling story for the audience. We see the struggles of a woman grieving the loss of a child, a man suffering from PTSD after the war, and a man who lost his job to the ever-increasing march of technology. While the show may take place in the 1950s, its messages persist to this day. Sometimes we need a little comedy to handle the hardships we face, for, as Byron says, "And if I laugh at any mortal thing, 'Tis that I may not weep."
Thank Yous
Cast and Crew - Thank you for your hard work on this show. I am excited for you to put that hard work on display for your audiences.
Administration: Thank you for allowing us to present this show and for enabling students to create live theater.
Custodial Staff - Thank you for everything you do for our building and for all your efforts in helping me create a successful show. Your work does not go unnoticed.
Seniors - Thank you for your time and dedication to the program. I wish you the best of luck as you continue on your path.
TJ Staff - Thank you to all who donated or allowed us to borrow items for the show. Thank you for supporting our students and our program. I am truly grateful.
