We are delighted you have joined us for this performance of Operation Epsilon by Alan Brody.  With this production, The Nora embarks on its first project with Catalyst Collaborative @MIT.  The CC @ MIT program rightly believes that science and the arts can, and must, work together.  Scientific exploration leads to new discoveries of enormous import; the arts shine a light on the impact of this new knowledge: Ethical questions may arise and unanticipated – and sometimes dire – consequences can result, all of which must be grappled with.  The ever-present tension between objective inquiry and moral responsibility puts our reasoning and consciences to the test.

The medium of theater is a potent tool for a thrilling and enlightening discussion of such things.  And happily for us, Alan Brody’s gripping play shoots us right into the heart of the argument.  Further, by choosing to write of an occurrence from the past, he forcefully reminds us once again that history continues to teach us essential lessons for the present and for the future.

We are honored – and immensely excited – to present the world premiere of Operation Epsilon.  For such an important play, a truly stellar team needed to be assembled.  I am happy to say that with our outstanding cast, remarkable designers, and ever-ready stage managers and technical crew, we have that team.  At the helm is Andy Sandberg whose insights, dedication and standards of excellence have inspired all of us to do our best, and then some.  We have also benefitted greatly from the efforts of Ellen Berman, whose shepherding of the play’s development and support of our work has been essential in making this production possible.  My heartfelt thanks go out to all of them.

Finally, to Alan Brody, a friend of all of ours at Central Square Theater for many years, my indescribable gratitude for saying “yes” when I asked if The Nora could produce Operation Epsilon.   Thank you,  Alan, for putting your trust in us, and for writing such a good – and necessary – play in the first place.