A lifetime of chasing the great American Dream brings Willy Loman nothing but debt and delusions in the upcoming production Death of a Salesman.
Now he finds himself wondering if it was ever attainable or a myth created to keep men like Willy busy working for the riches of other men.
Playing the part of The Woman, a former paramour of Willy’s, is well known local senior English teacher and Production Line Theatre Company regular, Skye Smith.
Being familiar with Arthur Miller’s work, Skye knew that she wanted to be a part of Death of a Salesman as soon as she heard Production Line was going to produce it.
“As much as I love doing comedy, I am always excited when the company produces plays that deal with deep issues and the human experience,” Skye said.
“They offer an extra layer of acting opportunities and I really enjoy challenging myself on the stage.
“Despite being set in a different time, the themes dealt with are timeless.
“I think audiences will resonate with a lot of the story and it’s exciting to be part of a play that can do that.”
Joining Skye on stage in the dual roles of Jenny and Letta is Elizabeth Stevens, who joined Production Line for their 2022 season of School of Rock.
“I wanted to be in this production so I could explore a genre of theatre that I haven’t been able to explore yet. I feel that it’s an important story and I’m really eager to be a part of telling it,” Elizabeth said
Also returning to the stage as Miss Forsythe is Xanthe Moser, another long time performer with Production Line.
“I’d been in some of the musicals before but only had my first experience with Production Line’s October play in 2022s Steel Magnolias, in the role of Shelby,” Xanthe said.
“That was a huge learning curve for me and I’m so humbled to be involved in another play that explores real human emotions and the pain of loss.
“This is an amazing ensemble for me to continue learning from too, they are such a talented group of actors.”
All profits from opening night will be donated to local charity St Vincent de Paul Assistance Centre Bairnsdale.
Attendees on opening night will be greeted with a complimentary glass of bubbly and supper provided by long term sponsor, New Leaf Cafe.
Death of a Salesman will open on Friday, October 18 for a total of six performances over two weekends, concluding on Sunday, October 27.
More information can be found on the Production Line website and Facebook page, as well as the Forge Theatre and Arts Hub website.
