The Goddard Institute of Dramatic Arts, a new theater company, has emerged from the ashes of the closed Goddard College in Vermont. This institute, with its Haybarn Summer Theater Ensemble, is set to premiere Leo Kurland's play, "Driver, Lender," which explores the complex issue of identity in acting. The play fictionalizes Adam Driver's casting as Shylock in Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice," raising questions about the authenticity of an actor's portrayal of a role that doesn't align with their identity. The Creative Campus at Goddard, once the college's grounds, now serves as a haven for artistic experimentation and talent development. Artistic directors Kristina Lear and David Warshofsky, who brought the Haybarn Summer Theater Ensemble to Vermont in 2013, aim to foster a community of artists and provide a platform for new talent. The campus, now owned by developer Mike Davidson, has been revitalized to preserve its artistic legacy. The couple's move to Vermont, despite the challenges of the post-COVID-19 live theater landscape, is driven by their passion for storytelling and their desire to live in a beautiful place. Warshofsky, the play's director, leads the actors in a rehearsal, encouraging them to explore the nuances of the script. Kurland, the playwright, appreciates the company's feedback, which has helped refine his 4-year-old work. The play's exploration of identity and the challenges of academic theater professionals seeking creative freedom is a thought-provoking addition to the theater scene. The Goddard Institute of Dramatic Arts promises to bring a unique and exciting experience to central Vermont, leaving audiences eager to witness the creative process unfold.
