Dublin-born writer, composer, and performer Caroline Kay is on the cusp of a defining moment as her new musical, Elephant Shoes, prepares for its world premiere in the US. This production is a significant step forward in accessible theatre, blending spoken dialogue, American Sign Language, and projected text in a way that hasn't been attempted before.
For Kay, this opening night is a culmination of years of transatlantic development with Deaf West Theatre and a personal milestone. It comes in the wake of a challenging year where she battled breast cancer, undergoing treatment that included two surgeries, four months of chemotherapy, and fifteen sessions of radiotherapy. Despite her medical battles, she persevered and pushed to join the production, making her presence on stage all the more meaningful.
The musical itself is a love letter to connection, longing, and the courage to be truly understood. It's a deeply personal project, reflecting Kay's own experiences and the support she received from her family during her illness. Her parents, Margaret from Cork and Donal from Tipperary, moved into her one-bedroom apartment in London to provide emotional and physical support during her treatment, a gesture of love and understanding that has had a lasting impact on her life and career.
The production's ambition lies in its commitment to accessibility, weaving it into the very fabric of the storytelling. Kay's collaboration with Deaf West Theatre, Ivan Menchell, and Jeff Calhoun has resulted in a unique theatrical experience that aims to be inclusive and engaging for both Deaf and hearing audiences. The show's development has been a long and challenging journey, taking over a decade to come to fruition, but Kay's determination and the support of her team have made it a reality.
The musical's success has been met with industry recognition, with press describing it as a potential pre-Broadway tryout. Kay's goal is to take the show as far as it can go, and she's excited about the possibility of adapting it for new audiences, including bringing it to London with British Sign Language and eventually back to Ireland.
As Elephant Shoes prepares for its world premiere, Kay's personal journey and the show's unique approach to accessibility make it a significant moment in theatre. Her resilience and dedication to her craft, despite the challenges she faced, are a testament to the power of art and the importance of inclusivity in the arts.
The premiere at the Two River Theater on June 6th marks the beginning of a new chapter in Kay's career, one that she has earned through hard work, perseverance, and a deep commitment to her art.
