Sarah Shanahan as Mrs. Deaton

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

The last show I did at the Players’ Ring was an original piece about WWII by Michael Letch and Jenn Vento, based on interviews with people who had been here on the Seacoast during the war. I was fortunate enough to be able to meet and talk with some of the women portrayed in the play. They were plucky and adventurous and deeply committed to both their country’s noble fight and the loved ones they were separated from because of it. In interview them, it really felt like every citizen, male or female was involved in the war effort.

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

Realistically, I probably would have worked at the Shipyard, but I would have loved to be in the USO.

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

I actually see Mrs. Deacon as being very much like my Great Aunt, a woman with a tough exterior, but also someone who was quietly rebellious, incredibly resilient and with a wonderful sense of humor.

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

I am most influenced by my daughter and my mother. I think that we’re all aware of how our Mothers shape who we are, but I think that raising a daughter has made me even more conscious of it, and of how we are all still growing and changing.

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

I hope that they recognize themselves or someone they know in these strong women, and that they carry their stories with them when they leave.

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