In January of 2022, Emmie produced and directed this full length play in High Point University’s Empty Space Theater with actors Hannah Wells and Shreya Rana.
A note on production:
You may notice that in this production of Gruesome Playground Injuries, the male role of Dougie was portrayed by female actress Shreya Rana. This choice was intentional. He is unsure of who he is, but knows that he wants to be loved while he figures it out. Dougie has a lot to prove, and although his home life seems “better” than Kayleen’s, he is constantly in an attention deficit and feels responsible for maintaining Kayleen’s happiness. This is no small task, as Kayleen has been repeatedly abandoned and cast aside because of who she is. She is unsure if she is capable of being loved, but wants to be herself while she figures it out. Kayleen and Dougie share a special bond because–inexplicably–they can see each other’s hidden fears and desires. The set design, inspired by the large dance mirrors in this space, lends audience members the pair’s almost supernatural ability to catch glimpses of facial expressions even behind turned backs. Their bond is worth examining from every angle. With 7 billion people only a swipe away, it is increasingly easy to run at the first sign of conflict. Why give someone a second chance when you could give another person a go? Why tell someone a hard truth when you could just cut them out? It’s become radical to extend grace and forgiveness to each other. Our closest relationships are with those who have seen our flaws and count them as part of someone they love–our greater whole.
Emmie D'Amico 