Arthur Miller's Award-Winning DEATH OF A SALESMAN Comes to Theatre Memphis, Now thru 2/9

By: Jan. 24, 2014
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Death of a Salesman, Arthur Miller's Pulitzer and Tony Award-winning drama comes to life on the Lohrey Stage at Theatre Memphis tonight, January 24 - February 9, 2014.

Willy Loman, one of the most famous characters in the history of the American theater, is a tortured soul hoping for a better life for his wife and sons. Reconciliation and forgiveness will come at a price as a secret is revealed- changing all their lives. In this American classic piece of theater a working class family stands divided.

Director Tony Isbell has blogged about the process of putting together such an iconic production. On Broadwayworld.com he talks of the approach of beginning such a feat and will take it through the opening night. He first questions himself, "Did I have any fresh insights to bring to the show?" and "Would enough people turn out to audition...?" There was a moment's hesitation to agree to the role of directing, but the opportunity far outweighed the concerns.

Further in his blog Isbell states, "Having made my decision, the first order of business was to have auditions." He continues, "Not only did I have the 'right' people, I had that problem that every director both wants and dreads: I had to make choices...." Executive Producer at Theatre Memphis Debbie Litch singles out Isbell as a director who attracts talent. "Tony has a great reputation for quality work. It is so important to Theatre Memphis to have that quality in a director which actors choose to work with on a complicated, dramatic piece. We couldn't be happier with the cast."

Starring in the role of the lead, Willy Loman, is James Dale Green, a veteran Memphis actor who last was seen on the TM stage as the blind man in Young Frankenstein. The two roles could not be more different than comedy and drama itself but the range of work from Green has proven his abilities. Playing Willy's wife, Linda, is Janie Paris (who has portrayed the role twice before), and the sons Biff and Happy are played by accomplished actors John Moore and Greg Earnest, respectively. The cast rounds out with Jody Kostner, Shannon Leonard, Timothy Burke, Jim Palmer, Matthew Hamner, Rachel A. Strickland, Chad Hoy, Elliott Heck and Jamie Broadway.

For more information, visit www.theatrememphis.org.



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