"Educating Asher" Production Fund

Hello, world! Let me start by introducing myself.

My name is Eytan Deray, and I am an actor, singer, and playwright from Wilton Manors, Florida.

 

Aside from my longtime love for musical theatre, it has been a constant goal and dream of mine to see the plays I write finally make their world premiere. I want to tell gay stories that are thought-provoking, moving, and ultimately relevant.

 

That's where my play, "Educating Asher," comes in. Thanks to Empire Stage, my dream of getting this story produced is finally coming true as we are readying to make our world premiere this summer!

A little bit about the play: Hiding in the kitchen at a reception for a funeral, Asher is not quite sure how to process his grief over the loss of his former middle school teacher, Elliott Weiss, who he hasn't spoken to or seen in 5 years. His boyfriend Mark tries to encourage him to talk to Mr. Weiss's widower, Nick, but to no avail. Soon enough, Asher is forced to confront his grief when Elliott's ghost appears in the kitchen with him. It's only now that Elliott is gone that Asher can finally say everything he ever wanted to the teacher that changed his life. "Educating Asher" is a meaningful story about love, loss, mentors, and the friendships that shape us.

 

Now's your cue. This is my first time helping produce my work, and mounting this play will cost us financially. We need your help! Any amount you can throw us is greatly appreciated. Our budget will be enough to cover the costs of salaries for the creatives on all sides of the production: actors, director, stage manager, set design, lighting and sound, etc. And think: by donating to our production fund, you're not just helping us put on a show. You're helping us tell a story that will bring us together as a community, LGBTQ+ and allies alike.

 

So, what do you say? Let's make this magic happen, shall we? Thank you, and see you at the theatre!