Black Dog Theatre Brings "Ordinary Days" to the Stage

Today may not be like any other day.

Black Dog Theatre Company presents “Ordinary Days” this October. The musical revolves around four New Yorkers whose lives intersect in unexpected ways. They search for connection, purpose, and happiness.

 “Ordinary Days” has been on Black Dog Theatre’s list for two years. Artistic Director Todd Coolidge said he was drawn to its humor and intimate storytelling when he first read the script.

“This show reminds us that even the most ordinary days can hold something meaningful,” said Jen Cardarelli, who directs the show.

The show has four characters whose paths cross over the course of the show. In casting, Cardarelli said they sought individuals who showed nuance, honesty, and emotional specificity in their auditions. 

Most importantly, connections. Actors were brought together for chemistry reads and to sing with a partner. Cardarelli said she wanted to see how performers listened and responded to one another.

“Exploring these connections has been a major focus throughout rehearsals, particularly in understanding what motivates each character from one song to the next,” she said. 

For her vision, Cardarelli said she wanted the show to feel authentic, human, and intimate. Rehearsals have been collaborative, with Cardarelli spending most of her time working with the cast to understand songs, their characters, and connections. 

“My goal was to create a world where the audience could see themselves in these characters and recognize the beauty and meaning in their own ordinary moments,” Cardarelli said.

Middleton resident Nate Abell, who plays Jason, didn’t hesitate when he first heard about auditions for “Ordinary Days.” He said that he fell in love with the story when he read it in college. He has listened to the cast album and conversed with others about his character.

For his part as Warren, an aspiring artist, Casey Williamson, from Salem, said he has researched different artistic mediums to feel more connected with his character.

Being in “Ordinary Days” has always been a dream show for Tomiko Nicholson, who plays Deb. One of her favorite scenes is the “Rooftop Duet describing it as a chance for audiences to see how the relationships have evolved.

“It just fills me with such a feeling of hope,” The Methuen resident said. 

Another important element is the music. It serves the story and reveals character dynamics, Cardarelli said. She said the music blends quiet, intimate moments with heartfelt ballads.

“Each song gives the audience another glimpse into who these people are, what they’re feeling, and how their stories are beginning to intertwine,” said Cardarelli. 

Finding a space that accommodated the show’s intimate feel was another attribute. So, the company connected with the North Andover Historical Society and its Worden Theatre. 

With limited space, Cardarelli said they have worked on beats to find engaging storytelling and honest interactions between the characters. Projections, lighting, and more will be used to create the feeling that audiences are in New York. 

Connection is central to the musical. Abell believes the show encourages audiences to slow down and appreciate what is already around them.

“The point of life is not to have one goal that you work for all your life to achieve. It’s to live, and in living, discover the beauty in the everyday,” he said. 

Williamson hopes audiences leave with a better understanding of connections. 

“We all should view each other’s point of view and ‘big picture’ with open eyes and empathy rather than being closed-minded,” Williamson said.

Audiences are invited to attend and connect for Black Dog Theatre’s “Ordinary Days.” The show is Oct. 23 - Oct. 25 at the North Andover Historical Society in North Andover, MA. Tickets are available online.