Episode #85
No. 85: Sherry Jackson Thompson, Wylie Caudill, Kyle Wade - JEFFERY
In this podcast my guests Sherry Jackson Thompson, Director; Wylie Caudill, Steve; and Kyle Wade, numerous roles - all female - discuss the upcoming production of Jeffrey by Act Out Theatre, exploring its themes of love, humor, and the impact of the AIDS crisis. They share insights into the mission of Act Out Theatre, the character dynamics within the play, and the challenges of rehearsing without a dedicated space. The discussion highlights the relevance of the play in today's context, emphasizing the importance of community and inclusivity in theatre. Jeffrey was written in the shadow of a profound public health and social crisis. Opening off-Broadway to much success in 1992, the play emerged during the AIDS epidemic, when fear, stigma, misinformation, and political inaction shaped the lives of countless Americans. Although the circumstances are different, the parallels between then and now are disturbingly similar. The early 1990s in America were marked by deep social and political divisions. Many people living with HIV and AIDS faced discrimination, isolation, and the loss of friends and loved ones while public institutions struggled to respond with the urgency the crisis demanded. The Reagan administration had been widely criticized for its delayed and inadequate public response during the early years of the epidemic, a failure that intensified the pain experienced by affected communities. These circumstances helped fuel activism and demanded that the public confront the human cost of silence. Today, as we recognize disturbing parallels between now and then – we honor humor and heart as a means to a kinder day. Sadly, communities still confront social injustice, political polarization, and marginalization today. For more and to connect with us, visit https://www.artsconnectlex.org/art-throb-podcast.html
