In terms of set design, something realistic and detailed but simple enough that we can move quickly from scene to scene, is probably best. In the first production of this play, there was a very large and very high wall, painted black, at the base of which were sliding glass doors, which served as the doors to both couples’ houses (i.e., the door out to the patio at one house in one scene, and the door into the kitchen of the other house in another scene). I mention this only because I think the high wall gave some sense of the largeness of the sky and the night and the Universe, and the use of the doors cut down on scene changes. I think transition sounds, such as crickets or buzzing fluorescent lights, are probably better than transition music. Light changes between scenes, as well, should be done in a way that is clarifying and expressive, but also efficient.

In terms of the text, I think all of these characters, though they each have a different mode, have a fairly dry way of speaking. This is not to say that they don’t have large and complicated feelings that they’re working through. All four characters are trying to deal, in some way, either directly or indirectly or evasively, with illness and death, and therefore with the whole idea of mortality, and therefore with the whole idea of how to live. But they are also just trying to get through the next minute of the day (pick up groceries, etc.). Certain emotional responses, such as anxiety and fear, should probably “leak out” or be glimpsed, rather than being presented in a forceful or muscular way. A straight and simple and serious approach to the play seems best, in terms of allowing for the play’s humor and melancholy.

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