lucky stiff

Director’s Note

Harry Witherspoon begins our story stuck in a monotonous life, clinging tightly to routine, predictability and playing it safe, all while wishing he could go off on adventures like the shoes he sells.  Over the course of the show, he is pushed far beyond his comfort zone – into wild, unexpected and often ridiculous circumstances.  While navigating the chaos, he discovers a much fuller, richer version of life.  When I first heard the score to this show, the songs “Good to Be Alive” and “Lucky” immediately stood out to me, and they have a way of returning at the most surprising moments, often when I am navigating something difficult.

Growing up I would sometimes turn to my father, who was a pediatric intensive care specialist, when I was overwhelmed or upset.  He would always ask me “Did anyone die?”  Thankfully the answer to that question was always no, and he would remind me that if no one died, then any problem or situation could be made manageable, solved, or repaired (he also liked to point out as I was managing, solving and repairing my problems that 80% of anything is easy; it is the last 20% that requires grit!). That perspective has stayed with me throughout my life, and it feels especially resonant in Lucky Stiff, where chaos, coincidence, and misfortune pile up in increasingly absurd ways. Beneath the farce, the musical not only makes us laugh, but reminds us of something deeply human: that being alive, in all its messiness, is something to celebrate.

This production has also been a milestone, marking our first co-production with Flint Repertory Theatre. From the earliest stages, our shops collaborated, our crews worked side by side, and guest designers from around the country joined our faculty designers, creating a truly integrated process. Students both onstage and off had the opportunity to work alongside seasoned professionals every step of the way, and the growth in their confidence and artistry has been remarkable to witness. It has been a joy to see this company come together in such a meaningful collaboration, and we are thrilled to share the result with you. Sit back, enjoy the ride, and hopefully you will leave the theatre with a renewed appreciation for life’s unexpected twists—and the simple, powerful truth that it’s good to be alive.

 -Stephanie Dean