The cast and crew of the Upper School winter play—The Play of Delights—had the opportunity to connect with the Ross Gay, the author of The Book of Delights, during their second to last week of rehearsals. The students are using Gay’s book of essays as the source material and inspiration for their student-devised play.

During the Zoom, students talked to Gay about his book and they asked if there were any additional “delights” he had wanted to share, how long it took him to write different chapters, and how he finds inspiration. Gay shared his process of writing as well as some tips with students. He ended the conversation by reading a few chapters from a forthcoming book.

Sarah Plotkin, the director of the play, said it was an amazing experience talking to Gay and that everyone was blown away by the joy and care he brings to his work.

“One of the things Ross said that we found especially inspiring was: ‘Life becomes eventful when you observe it.’ We feel excited to bring that same care and thoughtfulness to our show so that we can help the audience find delight in usual places—just like Ross does for his readers.” — Sarah Plotkin, Director of The Play of Delights, US Winter Play

Click here for ticket information about the Beaver production of The Play of Delights, January 27, 28, and 29.