by Jan Henson Dow & Robert Schroeder
Chosen for Downstage Theatreworks, CT
and
Women's History Month Festival, CT
A Haunting American Gothic
Dreamers, Shadows, Dreams is a provocative drama about a modern woman’s search for self-understanding through memories and dreams of her past.
In a time of crisis in her own life, Jennifer learns of the death of Christine, her high-school-years "sister" and best friend. Jennifer’s reflections relate later events in her own life to aspects of her teenage relationship with Christine.
Reliving the tragedy of Christine’s parents and Christine’s reaction to them forces Jennifer to confront her own lack of understanding and compassion toward those she loved. And the memory of Dorine, the black woman who was the solid rock of resolve and compassion in Christine’s household, provides a role model for Jennifer in her time of need.
The dreams and reflections enacted have prepared Jennifer for her future -- and she has discovered that joy is inseparable from a sharing of sorrow and human compassion.
"The dreamlike quality of the play is fascinating. . . . The play derives great strength from its haunting American Gothic atmosphere and the play’s compelling intensity. The way death-imagery and the images of violence suffuse the play is very effective. . . .
The relationship between the girls is clear, believable, and touching. The characters are well-drawn, and I particularly liked Dorine, the black mainstay of this Southern family’s dry-cleaning shop and household." -- Dallas Theatre Center
(5 f. 2 m.)
