Danna Schaeffer, a 74-year-old playwright from Portland, experiences a mix of joy and discomfort upon hearing about the birth of a friend’s grandchild.
Reflecting on her own loss, she expresses how such news triggers a deep sense of sorrow, realizing she will never have the same experience.
Schaeffer’s only daughter, the promising actress Rebecca Schaeffer, tragically fell victim to a disturbed fan who fatally shot her at her residence in West Hollywood in 1989.
In her emotional one-woman show titled “You in Midair: Elegy for a Daughter,” Schaeffer shares poignant anecdotes of her journey through grief, incorporating elements of her memories, insights, and humor.
Scheduled to run at the Lounge Theatre during the Hollywood Fringe Festival from June 3 to June 17, the production is among the myriad of performances offered by various local and international artists across central Hollywood.
This staging marks the third presentation of the show following its debut at Portland’s Fertile Ground Festival in January 2017.
Initially stepping into the spotlight with this piece, Schaeffer delves into her personal tragedy, revealing her vulnerability on stage for the first time.
Despite being new to acting, she embraces the challenge with enthusiasm, drawing inspiration from the Meisner technique, which her daughter had once studied during her early career.
Rebecca, born in Eugene, Oregon, in 1967, was described by her mother as vibrant and deeply spiritual.
Initially considering a path towards becoming a rabbi, Rebecca ultimately pursued a career in modeling and acting.
Her breakthrough came with the lead role in the CBS series “My Sister Sam” alongside Pam Dawber, although the show faced an untimely end due to poor ratings after two seasons.
The devastating incident unfolded on July 18, 1989, when Rebecca encountered her stalker, Robert John Bardo, at her doorstep, leading to her tragic death from a gunshot wound.
Schaeffer vividly recounts the heart-wrenching moment she received the news of her daughter’s murder and the subsequent emotional turmoil she endured during the trial proceedings.
Through her performance, Schaeffer navigates the complexities of grief, recounting her journey towards acceptance and closure.
The show serves as a poignant reflection on loss, resilience, and the enduring impact of tragic events on those left behind.
“You in Midair” is set to premiere on June 3 at the Lounge Theatre, offering audiences a glimpse into Schaeffer’s raw emotions and her poignant tribute to her beloved daughter.
Tickets for the show are available at a cost of $12, inviting viewers to witness a story of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory on stage.
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