Craig Anderson, who directed the Broadway premiere of “On Golden Pond” 40 years ago, will join Ojai Art Center artistic director Richard Camp to co-direct the upcoming local production.
The play stars Kitty Winn and Lawrence Pressman and will run from Jan. 26 through Feb. 18 at the Ojai Art Center Theater.
“I was in my 20s when I first directed the premiere of this play. So understanding the two leads, Norman and Ethel, who are in their late 60s and 70s, was a stretch,” said Anderson. “Now, I get them big time. Of course this play is entertainment, but trying to keep the comedic playfulness going while still being truthful and making sure the characters have heart is the test. I hope we can make that happen. This play has always reminded people that these characters are very similar to their own family members. That’s gold for us if that perspective works.
“It’s a complete delight to direct this play after so many years. I’ve spent many, many years with this play and numerous productions and it has always been one of my favorites. With so much talent in Ojai, I think it’s a hidden treasure and my goal is to help sell subscriptions so everyone can see all the plays and see the depth of this theater.”
One of the strengths of “On Golden Pond” is the values of the play that resonate with the audience, giving it legs through so many generations.
“It’s always been about family to me,” continued Anderson. “How we need them and have to work all the time to keep the relationships fresh. We take advantage so much of each other, but it’s family we most rely on. It’s about love and how it grows, and it’s about forgiveness and healing.”
During his time in New York, Anderson’s plays received four Tony awards and he produced the world premiere of Tennessee Williams’ “A Lovely Sunday for Creve Cour.” A native of Los Angeles, Anderson returned to the West Coast and found success in television and movies working with Alfre Woodard, Angelina Jolie, Jessica Lange, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Clive Owens and producing the TV versionof “On Golden Pond” with Christopher Plummer and Julie Andrews.
Season tickets, First Nighters Club tickets and general admission tickets are available at www.oact.org or by calling 640-8797.