About This Production

Years of success, meticulous planning, and an eye for detail have in no way prepared Vivienne Avery for her mother’s slide into the grip of dementia. Vivienne recounts memories of her aging mother and the difficult decisions regarding her care. Interwoven with these stories is an evolving, wondrous 21st century Alzheimer’s creation myth — an origin story about a White Egret who tries to protect forest animals as they lose their memories to a blind, oblivious Mole. “Blackberry Winter” is a moving, occasionally humorous, and deeply human new work.

Critic and Audience Reviews

BLACKBERRY WINTER is astounding in so many ways. This compassionate production not only takes a hard look at the universal question of how to care for aging family members but also how to care for one’s self through the process.

-Libby Champion, BroadwayWorld.com

O’Donnell gives an absorbing, almost painfully true-to-life performance.

-Matt Palm, Orlando Sentinel

You certainly owe it to yourself to experience at least one [Steve] Yockey show in your lifetime.

-The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Ms. O’Donnell is a wonder, flowing naturally from laughter and confidence to tears and anger. Her portrayal evolves, pulling you like a magnet into the heart of this Everywoman.

-Pam Harbaugh, Brevard Culture

Creative Team

Director: Michael Dove
Scenic Designer: Vandy Wood
Lighting Designer: Amy Hadley
Costume Designer: Denise R. Warner
Sound Designer: Britt Sandusky

Meet the Cast

Suzanne O’Donnell*

Vivienne
Mindy Anders

Mindy Anders*

White Egret
Kody Grassat

Kody Grassett

Gray Mole