‘Violet’ is not a musical many Daytonians have seen, and Dare to Defy hopes to change that. ‘I know people will love this show if they just take the chance.’ Says Philip Drennen, who directs the show. ‘This is such a timely musical, and it hits on the themes we are facing today…but it does it in a real and relatable way.’

D2D’s ‘Violet’ sheds light on troubled times.

DFD’s ‘Violet’ sheds light on troubled times.

‘Violet,’ focuses on a young lady, filled with hope and expectation, making her way across country, hoping to heal her scar(s). ‘It’s truthful and it’s grounded. It has traditional musical components but the story is real world.’ Says Drennen.

The musical was the winner of the Drama Critics’ Circle Award in it’s first inception. Tony Winner, Sutton Foster, starred in the 2014 revival.

Although the show is well-loved, it is rarely produced.

‘ It’s a tough one to pull off. It has complex music, needs strong singing voices, and superior acting. You need the tri-fecta, and I think we have found it!’

‘Violet’ relies heavily on the cast’s vocals.

‘Violet’ relies heavily on the cast’s vocals.

Mackensie King, who co-directs adds, ‘It’s a love story, but it’s so true to life. ‘Violet’ is us!’
‘Violet’ tackles some heavy issues without getting stuck in the darkness.
‘Racism. Vietnam. Questioning Religion. Women trying to live up to some unattainable standard of beauty. It’s all in here. And, somehow, these themes are relevant all over again.’ Drennen pauses for a moment. ‘In our society, social media allows us to show only our best moments…this play shows us the reality of people. It’s not always pretty!’

‘Violet’ tackles all kinds of controversial issues, in an honest way.

‘Violet’ tackles all kinds of controversial issues, in an honest way.

The music in ‘Violet’ is quite a mix. Toe-tapping gospel, fun-loving blues, and heart wrenching ballads all combine for one incredible score. In its quieter moments, ‘Violet’ reaches within us, and audience tears have been known to fall.

‘These are the kind of musicals D2D set out to produce. They are unique. They deal with personal issues and make you think, make you feel.’ says Drennen. ‘And this cast….oh my goodness! Their energy, their drive and their desire to make a great show!! I know it’s cliche, but this is a family. Because the show is so emotionally driven, we have had to be vulnerable at times. Everyone takes care of each other, and the positive energy has been astounding.’

Judy Mansky, musical director, added, ‘You know the underlying story they are telling, and this cast does it with honesty, and heart! It’s a wow!’

‘Violet’ is redemptive, and quite poignant.