On the cusp of the new (ab)normal

Four more years? Really?

During the cusp leading to Tronald Dump’s second inauguration*, I’ve been working on a utopian play about a village that removes itself from civilization, away from politics and prejudice. It’s not a Holydoow story. The citizens don’t rip each other apart or descend into horrific chaos. There’s not an excessively dramatic love story. Instead, they laugh and work, suffer a bit, solve their problems, and get on with their lives. Naturally, they are considered fools.

Part of me wants to have been working on a script that attacks the establishment, undermines the hate-economy, and offers a powerful path forward to heal the world. I am terrified that we are about to descend into a vengeful dictatorship leading to violence and chaos.

One way I’ve stayed sane (relatively) over the past few months is with a personal policy of watchful disengagement. When I don’t see hope or a solution, I look to other things – exercise, making good food, writing, binge-watching… Sometimes it feels like I’m looking for the perfect view from my deck chair on the Titanic.

Yet I also am keeping my eye out for the leverage points where I can apply pressure or action to make a difference.

Posting on social media has never been my strong suit. I honestly haven’t seen any theatre that made a real political difference. The various opposition parties haven’t provided leadership vision that unites. My past political runs inform me that I’m not “it.” Protesting at this moment seems to be a too-little-too-late futile exercise in commiseration. And the shit hasn’t hit the fan. Yet. Although it’s gathering momentum.

So, I’ve been making a show, The Better Place, that’s like chicken soup with matzoh balls. Clear broth with tasty light dumplings, a little salt, some carrots and protein, and as soon as you finish your bowl, you’ll want more. No, it’s not for everyone. Vegetarians and people on a low-carb or sodium-free diet (or their audience-equivalents) won’t line up for tickets. Don’t come looking for a twelve-course tasting menu or a fully-balanced meal with vegetables.

My goal is to offer audiences a tasty break from the bleeding edge of today and the unknown of tomorrow – with smiles and chuckles, and a bit of insight, so you leave feeling a little happier.

What comes after that? We’ll see.

After watching the Dump’s crowing white religious nationalistic inaugural address, I wonder whether anything is enough…

For years I’ve had a policy – don’t give in to terrorists. Don’t let them define my life and work.

So… I’m looking for bookings, so if you know a venue or a contact, or want to help produce or bring The Better Place to you community, reach out.

Even if you don’t, please let me know your thoughts and suggestions about this or anything else.

- Mark

*No, I’m not treating Trump like Voldemort. I just like making fun of him. He’s a bloviant egomaniacal liar, thief, felon, bigot, racist and rapist. With very small hands.