Alzheimer’s

USA Today reports that more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease, a 10% increase since the last Alzheimer's Association estimate five years ago. Already, one in eight people 65 and older have the mind-destroying illness, and nearly one in two people over 85. The devastating effects of the disease are examined in our one-act play, “Comfort’s Broken Light,” by Aris Bremer. Dramatic and poignant, it is written as only one could from firsthand family experience. Theatres may wish to produce the play in conjunction with their local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Versatile Playwright

R. Eugene Jackson, who has written ten plays for Eldridge including the most recent Till Beth Do Us Part, is also an actor in his spare time. You’ll soon be able to see him in the movie “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” as the (non-speaking) milkman. It stars Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett. Gene’s also played the part of the bookstore owner in “A Perfect Day,” a made-for-TV movie with Rob Lowe shown on TNT last Christmas time. You may also have seen him in a Kleenex commercial, the one with a blue sofa on a city street (in New Orleans’ French Quarter) from which people are interviewed. He says, “There is no question that, for me, playwriting has aided in my acting, and acting has helped me learn more about character development. They are mutually beneficial--and mutually fun!” He now has an agent and is auditioning for bigger roles. Congrats, Gene.

Rip Van Winkle

Take a look at a new release, “Rip Van Winkle,” which features minimal set requirements and maximum involvement by an extremely flexible onstage ensemble! This “storyteller’s theatre” one-act comedy adaptation is ideal either by itself or as part of a full evening of fun, spooky entertainment. It was created by Patrick Rainville Dorn, a gifted playwright new to the Eldridge house. Welcome, Patrick!

Performing Arts and Copyrights:

The spring school play season is gearing up. The Editorial Office notes questions about royalty payment are increasing. Eldridge Plays either holds the copyright or has executed an exclusive contract to represent the copyright owner in all licensing agreements. The fast answers to frequently asked questions are found by clicking FAQ Answers in the yellow ribbon bar on every web page or here.

New Poster Released

Martinsville Prevention Theatre wanted a poster and T-shirt to stress the dangers of drinking and driving as we near the end of school term. Our graphics folks responded quickly and the order is on the way in less than 48 hours. Check out Bryan McCampell’s one-act play Crosses to Bear for a new poster and t-shirt graphic. One act plays are especially suited to school competitions or end of the year assemblies. (posted 03/01/07)