OVERCOME
by Amy Brenneman
Cotuit Center for the Arts, Cotuit, MA (workshop production)
Few actors have the power, warmth, humor and honesty that Amy Brenneman brings to the stage. She is a luminous, presence, fiercely direct, utterly believable, transcendant. In Overcome, Amy tells the story of her journey raising her special needs daughter—from judgment, to heartbreak, to acceptance, and ultimately to a celebration of difference.
As a theatrical event, I see Overcome as unique in its redefinition of the autobiographical genre. It has the immediacy and intimacy of a “one-woman show,” reaching audiences with Amy’s singular ability to connect with people and draw them in to her compelling narrative. But it also relies on robust heightened theatrical elements to support and amplify the story. For example, movement in Overcome is used in myriad, inventive ways. As a choreographer who grew up in the idioms of modern, contemporary and theater dance--and as a director of theater, I revel in using original movement to support the storytelling in a range of ways.
Overcome” is a gift to all who experience it. We had the privilege of collaborating on this remarkable piece with our local actors, musicians, and tech crew, who worked alongside A-listers like Amy Brenneman and Sabrina Peck to bring these powerful performances to life. Their storytelling was both exceptional and unconventional, delivering an engaging piece that deeply touched everyone who saw it. Beyond its emotional impact, the play educated and illuminated the unique story of a mother and daughter—a narrative that resonates with everyone. We take pride in being an inclusive and welcoming resource for our community, and producing Overcome reaffirmed our mission. And then, of course, there is Amy Brenneman's performance—simply put, it is jaw-droppingly gorgeous.
-- David Kuehn: Executive Director, Cotuit Center for the Arts
Overcome” is a deeply moving blend of personal narrative and a call to action. Amy and Charlotte’s journey – as specific as it is – miraculously affects audience members of all kinds -- those who may have walked a similar special needs road and those who have had different experiences of feeling marginalized, different, or alone. Thoroughly entertaining and never ever preachy, “Overcome” creates a community of audience members who laugh, cry, and cheer together at the show’s poignant conclusion. An essential piece of theater that may be needed by people who don’t even realize their need for it.
-- Kenneth Cole: Designer; Social Activist, Philanthropist; CEO, Kenneth Cole Productions