“This show is character-driven, which I love,” said Fran Pesch, co-director and founder of the Young at Heart Players. “It’s a real show about real people. I actually see this as a love story between a former student and his teacher. And in Morrie’s case, he’s accepted what’s going to happen to him. All his demons are gone. He simply wants to get Mitch to appreciate life and live life. Morrie’s passing is sad, but that’s not what the show is about. Mitch’s growth and Morrie’s influence in his life is what matters.”
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“Mitch is a character that sort of rushes through life and doesn’t take time to enjoy things,” added co-director Annie Pesch. “Morrie opens his eyes.”
The two-hander stars Patrick Hayes as Mitch and Jamie McQuinn as Morrie. Both have appeared in productions with the Dayton Theatre Guild. In particular, Hayes, founder of Bespoke Theatre, finds the material compelling on a personal level. In 2008, his aunt was diagnosed with ALS. She lost her battle but her legacy lives on.
“I watched this person who was full of love and life have her body stolen from her,” Hayes said. “It was terrible to see but her outlook was much like Morrie. She was a caring person and that care continued through her illness. Artistically, this show is a real challenge for me. It’s the most vulnerable character I’ve had to play. It’s something I can connect with emotionally and personally.”
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Fran Pesch recognizes the production occurring during the 20th anniversary of the book’s publishing, particularly hoping the show attracts a wider audience in turn.
“We’re hoping to get teachers and high school students to see the show,” she said. “The book is still on some high school reading lists.”
“A line that sticks out to me is when Morrie says ‘I wish I had been more aware of death every day of my life,’” Hayes added. “It’s not to say we should live in fear of death but awareness that all of this is temporary and therefore precious. We only have a finite amount of time to spend together so let’s make the best of it. Let’s appreciate our good relationships and say goodbye to our bad relationships. Life is precious. Time is precious. Love those who love and forget about the rest.”
WANT TO GO?
What: "Tuesdays with Morrie"
Where: Dayton Playhouse, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton.
When: Nov.17-26; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays
Cost: $15 for adults; $12 for seniors and students. Tickets may be purchased at the door
Reservations: Call Fran Pesch at (937) 654-0400
More info: Visit youngatheartplayers.com
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