Watch Janey Makes a Play

Janey Makes a Play is a 2015 documentary film that takes a close look at the creation of community theater in a small town in Massachusetts. The film offers an intimate portrait of Janey, a retired schoolteacher, and her quest to bring her passion for theater to the rural community of Plainfield. The film begins with Janey gathering a group of eager volunteers to audition for her latest production, a play about the lives of the local community. As the film progresses, we see the struggles and triumphs of the actors as they rehearse for the production, from grappling with stage directions to bringing their characters to life.

One of the primary themes of the film is the importance of community, as Janey enlists the help of her friends, family, and neighbors to create the play. The film highlights the power of collaboration and the importance of shared goals, as the group comes together to create something meaningful for themselves and their community.

Janey's passion for theater is infectious, and it becomes clear that her dedication to the art is a driving force behind the success of the production. Her enthusiasm for the project helps to inspire her fellow actors, who may have never taken part in community theater before.

Throughout the film, we see the ups and downs of the production process, from costume and set design to the final dress rehearsal. As Janey and her team put the final touches on the production, tensions rise and emotions run high. The film offers a fascinating look at the behind-the-scenes workings of community theater, and the dedication and hard work required to put on a successful production.

One of the film's standout moments is a powerful monologue delivered by one of Janey's actors, who shares her struggles with addiction and recovery. The emotional scene highlights the transformative power of theater, as the art form allows the actor to confront her demons and open up to her fellow actors and the audience.

The film also delves into the history of theater in America, highlighting the important role that community theater has played in bringing theater to audiences beyond the commercial stage. Janey Makes a Play serves as a reminder of the importance of the arts in bringing people together, fostering creativity, and celebrating the human experience.

Directed by Jared Callahan and co-produced by Saralyn Richard, the film offers a heartfelt and engaging exploration of the power of community theater. Combining intimate interviews with behind-the-scenes footage of the production, Janey Makes a Play is a must-see for theater lovers and anyone interested in the transformative power of creativity and community.

Janey Makes a Play is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.5.