"Going to a Place where you Already Are": A Heavenly Evening at SCR

At South Coast Repertory on Friday, March 11, there were lots of funny moments, a surprise or two, some serious discussions and a few tears—onstage and off, when playgoers relived what they had just seen: the world premiere of Going to a Place where you Already Are, a touching new play about the here and the hereafter.

Were any beliefs confirmed or minds changed? Maybe. Maybe not. But either way, there was much to talk about on the stroll to The Westin South Coast Plaza, co-host of the Cast Party.

Playgoers gathered in the refurbished Catalina Room, where they honored Playwright Bekah Brunstetter, Director Marc Masterson, and Honorary Producers Damien and Yvonne Jordan and Betty and SL Huang. Post-show tears finally were wiped away in time to greet the cast—Founding Artist Hal Landon Jr. and his stage wife, SCR favorite Linda Gehringer; another SCR favorite, Rebecca Mozo, and her stage boyfriend, Christopher Thornton; and an angel, that is, a stage angel, played by Stephen Ellis.

Sampling “heavenly” food and drink, First Nighters and their guests lingered into the evening to enjoy the camaraderie and conversation. Among the most enthusiastic were the play’s underwriters.

Damien and Yvonne Jordan: "We love how Bekah interwove so many different themes: importance of family, how to treat people daily, whether living or dying, the impact of believing in something bigger than ourselves—with moments of laughter and tears—which is what life delivers to us. Incredible performances from the entire cast and so beautifully directed by our own Marc Masterson—we could not have been more proud and inspired to be involved with this production."

SL and Betty Huang: “This was another memorable experience for us! From the first reading to watching the play on stage was such a thrill. It was such a joy to watch all of the talented and passionate people who worked together, from the playwright and director to the actors and designers and others. The costumes, set design, lighting and more all were wonderful. Most important to us was watching the play SCR's devoted and supportive audiences, all under the same roof. It was so touching and emotional!"



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