Over the River and Through the Woods

FROM THE DRAMATURG Born and raised in New Jersey by an Italian-American family, playwright Joe DiPietro knew what it was like to grow up Italian in New Jersey. He even said that the four grandparents in Over the River are loosely based on his grandparents. With humor that can only come from truly understanding family, DiPietro portrays a realistic picture of the importance of family to one of Americas largest ethnic groups. In doing so, he also gives insight into every family, no matter their background. Joe DiPietro once said, “The biggest difference between these generations is their concept of family and home. Our grandparents believed family was central, and work is something you just do to provide for them. For our generation, it’s a lot more complicated.” He knew values change from generation to generation. Parents struggle understanding their children. Grandchildren wonder how their grandparents can stay in one place their entire lives. Grandparents wonder if the better life they promised to give the next generation is really better. As you enjoy Over the River, see the fun and humor but do not overlook the depth behind the characters. The difficulty of letting go, the hardship of making the decision to leave everything familiar, the struggle to understand what is truly important in life — these are things we all will face in our lives. Whether you are a grandparent, parent, or student, you will identify with one of Joe DiPietros characters. Their struggles are not terribly different from our own. — Nicole Renee Moore, Guest Dramaturg Nicole graduated from Cedarville University with a theatre degree in 2008. She lives in Maryville, Tennessee, with her husband, Ken, and son, Sam. Originally produced on the New York stage by Jonathan Pollard, Bernie Kukoff, Tony Converse and James Hammerstein. Produced by Helen Hayes Performing Arts Center (Pam Klappas, Artistic Director; Tony Stimac, Executive Producer) on October 3, 1997. Presented at The Berkshire Theatre Festival (Arthur Storch, Artistic Director; Kate Maguire, Managing Director) on August 12, 1997. Produced by The American Stage Company (James N. Vagias, Executive Producer) on January 10, 1996. Developed at the 1994 National Playwrights Conference/Eugene O’Neill Theater Center (Lloyd Richards, Artistic Director). First produced at The Belmont Italian American Playhouse (Dante Albertie, Artistic Director Marco Greco, Executive Director) in April 1994. “Yes Sir That’s My Baby” Written by Walter Donaldson and Gus Kahn. Donaldson Publishing Co. and Gilbert Keyes Music. International Copyright Secured. All Rights Reserved. Used by Permission.