I saw one of the most moving plays I have seen in a very long time. Not only was it expertly written, but it was amazingly well acted. I have known Aaimee Johnson and Kevin Doyle for a while now and have seen them in several plays, but last night, I missed them on stage for the only people there were Juliana and Ian, the husband and wife living this drama of a family’s struggle with identity and love. The play, The Other Place by Sharr White, confronts the issue of dementia. However, while this subject is one that so negatively effects so many lives today, this story is amazingly uplifting. “How can this be,” you say? To answer this question you must see this production performed by members of The Actors Theater of Orcas Island. Once again, Doug Bechtel as director has succeeded in reaching into actors and bringing out real characters that touch our sensitivities, our imaginations and our experiences. Besides Aaimee and Kevin, Bethany Marie, and Travis Baker provide excellent support by taking on their varied roles so very well. Not to give the ending away, but just a hint is the appearance of adorable Grace Zwilling.

Perhaps the best test for a good production is the reaction of the audience. I noticed at the end that I hadn’t even adjusted my body in the seat, and, what’s more, neither had anyone else. Everyone sat perfectly still, so wrapped up in the story, a story that is tender, caring, and very insightful.

You still have five chances to see this wonderful play, next Friday and Saturday, Sept. 15 and 16, and the following Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 22, 23 and 24 at 7:30. Don’t miss it.

Maura O’Neill

Orcas Island