Kathryn Shaw’s Play “Super Seniors” Explores Life After 105

Playwright and director Kathryn Shaw is set to present her latest work, “Super Seniors,” a touching and humorous exploration of life after 105. The play, which debuted last year under the direction of Anita Rochon, a graduate of Shaw’s renowned Studio 58 theatre program, will enjoy a brief run from September 18 to 21, 2023, at the Peninsula Productions black box studio theatre in White Rock, British Columbia.

“Super Seniors” focuses on three women residing in the Fairfield Senior’s Residence, all of whom have celebrated their 105th birthdays. The production addresses serious themes alongside comedic elements, providing audiences with laughter and relatable insights into aging. Robert Moloney, another former student of Shaw’s, directs this staged reading, which features a talented cast including Joyce Gillespie as Elizabeth, Judy Starre as the vivacious Hildy, and Val Dearden as Mildred, who grapples with dementia yet remains connected through the music of her past.

Shaw’s inspiration for the characters draws from her own family experiences. With both her mother and grandmother surpassing the century mark, she reflects on their lives through her writing. “I think I always had this idea in my head that I’d like to write something that would put my mother and my grandmother and myself on stage together,” she noted.

From Pandemic Project to Stage

The idea for “Super Seniors” emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that provided Shaw with unique creative opportunities. With a year left before her retirement from teaching at Studio 58, she turned to the group Angry Actors, with whom she had collaborated in the 1980s and 1990s. “I said, ‘What do you think – maybe we should do some online writing?’ I presented scenes to them, and they encouraged me to keep going,” Shaw explained, leading to a complete draft of the play.

As the play developed, it resonated with those who read it, paving the way for workshops and eventually the production with Western Gold Theatre. In an unexpected twist, Shaw found herself stepping into the role of Elizabeth when the original actor had to withdraw. “I didn’t write the play with the idea that I would be in it, but when we needed an actor I thought, ‘Well, I know the part – I’ll do it,'” she recalled.

A Reflection on Aging and Friendship

At its heart, “Super Seniors” captures the essence of friendship and the support it provides throughout life’s challenges. “At its core, it’s about friendship – and how friends help each other through life,” Moloney stated.

The play’s relatability extends to audiences of all ages, with even young viewers finding enjoyment in the themes presented. Shaw expressed her satisfaction with the initial reception, noting that laughter was a key objective. “What I’ve been really pleased about is that it has appealed to all ages,” she remarked.

Moloney first learned about “Super Seniors” during a chance encounter with Shaw at the Arts Club Theatre in Vancouver. After reading the script, he became captivated by its blend of humor and heart. He stated, “Kathryn writes in such a way that the issues are real – but you can still laugh at them.”

For those interested in experiencing this unique theatrical journey, performances will take place at 7 p.m. on September 18 and 19, and 2 p.m. on September 20 and 21. Tickets and additional information are available through peninsulaproductions.org, showpass.com, or by calling 604-536-8335.