When I Die

Gravestone

… I want to be remembered as a Story-Teller.

 

Stories are the electronic sparks that move between groups of people, between individuals, between strangers, friends, enemies, allies, nations. And story-tellers are the synapses that connect the separate elements and convey the stories upon the backs of their respective talents. What I like best about theatre, and my role in theatre, is having the opportunity to move a story from the mind of an individual (playwright), to a hive of ’emphasizers’ (production cast and crew), to the collective of a group (audience). And if I’m really lucky, I get the chance to see it move past that collective and gain momentum out in the community, and then the world.

 

I like stories that combine “myth, magic and the mundane.” By this I mean, stories that either take a mundane topic and elevate it to higher levels (a story about getting rid of a difficult stain on laundry day becomes an allegory for ridding ourselves of stains in our lives), or that do the reverse and start with magical, mystical elements and then compare them with situations that everyone goes through (a battle between Greek gods helps a young boy deal with bullies). I like stories that address big, timeless issues rather than superficial, ‘cotton-candy’ topics.

 

I believe that the role of the theatre artist (all artists, really) is to be the finger-pointer, the nudger that pokes people just enough to make them stop, think and consider their choices more consciously. We stand on the shoulders of court jesters, of shamans, of bards. We entertain, yes; but that entertainment should be a tool, should have a purpose.

3 thoughts on “When I Die

  1. Cat it is a distinct honor to know you. You are the epitome of a theater professional. I also admire your love of cats and dogs and all animals. One day it will be a treat to work together ……………Love, Kelly Karavites <3

    • That means a lot coming from you, Kelly. Thank you for dropping by, and yes – let’s make it a point to work together soon!
      Peace
      Cat

  2. Cat – you have been busy, woman! I am so proud of you (although I do miss that gorgeous blonde hair – now we’re both redheads – what’s up with that???) Jimmy and I are working diligently to get our behinds back to Hawaii – Maui, specifically. Our condo here in Scottsdale is on the market and we’re ready to go!!! Once we’re there, I hope you consider brining your troupe to the islands. And to think. . .I knew you when. . . . . . (lol). You are amazing. XOXOKB

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