“I am unbelievably proud thatThe Cake is the first
in that new initiative, it is an exceptional play,” he continued. “Funny and heartbreaking, with vivid depictions of people struggling with both sides of a complicated issue. I love how deeply the play resonates with what is happening in the world today. It is a privilege to present the Echo Theatre Company’s world premiere production, beautifully directed by Jennifer Chambers, with a stellar cast led by Debra Jo Rupp (That ‘70s Show).” Rupp plays Della, owner of the bakery and was
instantly drawn to the well written, humorous piece. “I was raised a Southern Baptist, I feel like I under- stand the strong adherence to ‘directions.’ Though I am a pie girl myself, I will never turn down a piece of coconut cake.” She thinks it’s an important piece that should be seen. “I get so excited for the audience when I start this play,” Rupp offered. “I know, due to the subject matter, many people sitting in their seats have some sort of judgment as to what they will be seeing. To hear and feel them twist and turn, laugh and cry over 90 minutes, then see their faces at the end of the show and know complete strangers with different points of view have been touched… that just makes my heart happy. It’s a tiny piece of coming together and starts a dialogue.” As for the controversial message the play offers,
Rupp says, “I find Della to be a bit like my parents growing up in the ‘60s. They were distrusting of people who were not like them… I think it scared them. I remember my mother had a particular problem with people from New Jersey—I do not
remember why—but I know I carried that with me for a while. Then I met New Jersey people and they seemed fine to me and my mother met my friends and made them the ‘exception to the rule.’ I think when people actually meet the people that controversy surrounds and have a conversation, when they meet the gay roommate of their son or the gay best friend of their daughter, it makes it a bit harder to judge. As Della says, ‘Maybe there are parts of the way things are that just don’t work anymore,’” Rupp shared. “I support finding your partner, regardless of gender. I support what makes you strong and healthy and happy and loving. I’ll pretty much dance at any wedding… it’s not pretty, but it’s joyous and heartfelt.” Shakman feels the show will appeal to all because
of the skillful way Brunstetter approached the subject with “humor, grace and humanity.” He also feels Geffen audiences will embrace taking a chance with this play. “The best theatre asks tough questions and this play is no exception. It handles its tricky subject matter with such skill that I hope each and every audience member, regardless of personal belief, will find something universally true and deeply moving in this
story.The Cake has the power to bring people together in a time when our daily news talks only of difference.”
The Cake runs Monday, September 10 through Sunday, Octo- ber 21 at The Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Avenue in Los Angeles. For tickets and more information, call 310.208.5454 or go to
geffenplayhouse.org.
(above) debra jo rupp
artistic director matt shakman
(left) carolyn ratteray and debra jo rupp
SEPTEMBER 2018 | RAGE monthly 53
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