Photo by M. Lavigne Photography

Danica Carlson as Virginia Hascall

Q – Before you started working on this production, what was your perspective on the role of women during WWII?

I’m not so secretly a huge amateur historian, (I love history!) so I had done a lot of research about this time period previously. I knew women were a huge part of the war effort. They had to be, and many desperately wanted to be. However, when Joi and I found this script, I was baffled by the fact that it was based on true events. I had no idea there were women pilots. This incredible part of our history unfortunately isn’t taught or spoken of much.

Q – What kind of job do you think you would have had during WWII?

Honestly, I have no idea. My entire family, excluding me, seems to be in medicine of some kind, so I’m guessing I would have been a nurse. I would have loved that. My grandfather was a WWII medic, and won a Purple Heart for it. But I also would have loved being a USO performer for the troops overseas. I think that would have been amazing too!

Q – What or who do you draw on for inspiration for your role?

For my role as Virginia, I draw on the other woman in the cast. I’m not the kind of actor who comes up with back story, or “why” if it’s not already provided in the text. (Most actors would find this strange.) Fortunately, for me, all of that is coming from reacting to the other actors on stage. I’m trying to make my acting choices based on the dynamics within this ensemble of women. Hierarchy, class, age, experiences. It’s all already there. I’m using that as my inspiration.

Q – What woman in your life influences you the most and why?

I have been incredibly fortunate to have been surrounded by strong, independent, loving and inspiring women my entire life. From the women in my family, to the women at work. To limit it to just one, is impossible.

Q – What do you hope our audience gains from seeing Decision Height?

An experience. A new outlook. Whatever that may be to them. I hope they let themselves feel it.

Decision Height will be at the Players’ Ring  May 6 – 22, get your tickets now!