Two-Sided Mirror

In this program, audiences watch scenes in which Jim, a father and grandfather, is trying to cope with his daughter’s recent cancer diagnosis. As the play progresses, we see Jim trying to navigate his own feelings of depression and suicidality while supporting Marissa and her daughter, Corrine. As it becomes apparent that Marissa’s illness may be terminal, she begins to consider whether Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) is right for her. Through the eyes of Marissa, Corrine, and Jim we see a family contending with the realities of MAiD and its implications, through three different viewpoints.

In the workshops, audiences have an opportunity to “rehearse for reality” – after seeing scenes dealing with these difficult situations, they are then invited by a facilitator to suggest changes, and replace characters in the scenes to try out alternative ideas to improve the situation for the characters. Through these dialogues, our hope is that seniors and their families will find new ways to support one another if and when these circumstances arise.