The story follows a family who is struggling with their mother, Dotty’s Dementia disease. It takes winding turns as the disease progresses and everyone’s acceptance of the progression changes.
From the beginning watching how Dotty interacted with her daughter, Shelly reminded me of my grandma and my aunts act when we have gotten together. Everyone is so opinionated and yet Dotty and Shelly are wrestling with one another emotionally on what the next steps are. Shelly’s answer is extremely unconventional but as I watch her why it became clear. I had never seen Dementia portrayed in such a way before. To be honest like most of us we only think that memories are lost but the reality is whole lives are taken.
I never gave thought how someone like Dotty would feel as everyone moves around her. I remember growing up in my neighborhood and church family there were many instances that made me feel a sense of relativity. Having love and respect with community mothers who made you feel loved and how the love never changes but as they get older their health deteriorates.
I love how Playwright and Director kept the colorful beauty of intertwining Donnie’s marriage to Adam and showing how there is acceptance with Dotty. I also love that even as much acceptance and love is around them they still like all relationships are complex! Jackie’s inability to move on from Donnie who was her high school sweetheart (yes now married to Adam) has pushed her decision making.
I love Averie the youngest and dreamer that everyone has written off. She actually has more sense than they give her credit. She also looks out for Fidel in her own way. Fidel is from Russia and has been paid to keep an eye out for Dotty. We all know how healthcare and long term care works. It’s great when you have enough resources but when you don’t you have to get creative.
There is a lot of high emotions and trauma that happens as Dotty progresses. Trauma always has a way of rearing it’s head at the most opportune times. Yet it’s within that trauma that forces your hand to do the work you neglected.
Dot is beautiful, sad, enlightening, sacred, truthful and in a twist humorous. It’s more than a story about disease it’s a story of life that we ALL can relate. How we fit within our own communities and how we process pain, life, and love speaks volumes.
Dot is a must see. As always People’s Light always leaves me thinking. It causes a spark of conversation with my family and friends. What is my legacy and how would I want to be honored if I ever couldn’t keep my own dignity?!
Dot is running until Sunday October 20, 2019! Don’t miss your opportunity! People’s Light is located at 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern PA 19355. Tickets start at $35 and can be purchased here!
