THE SECRET WISDOM OF TREES

by Christine Toy Johnson

THE SECRET WISDOM OF TREES is the story of Abby Green, an intrepid and fiercely funny 67 year old woman who tries to prepare her family and herself for her journey into Alzheimer’s at an "insultingly young age" by planting trees at the locations of her biggest memories. When her daughter dies and her grandchildren turn against her, she struggles with knowing that even her most painful memories are becoming...

THE SECRET WISDOM OF TREES is the story of Abby Green, an intrepid and fiercely funny 67 year old woman who tries to prepare her family and herself for her journey into Alzheimer’s at an "insultingly young age" by planting trees at the locations of her biggest memories. When her daughter dies and her grandchildren turn against her, she struggles with knowing that even her most painful memories are becoming difficult to hold onto. What’s worse – losing your family or losing the memories of what has become of them? Inspired by true events. Dedicated to Lynn Cohen.

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THE SECRET WISDOM OF TREES

Recommended by

  • Jewish Plays Project: THE SECRET WISDOM OF TREES by Christine Toy Johnson
    “

    The Jewish Plays Project recommends THE SECRET WISDOM OF TREES as a Semi-Finalist for the 11th annual Jewish Playwriting Contest. Our community of readers highly enjoyed this love letter and deeply moving tribute to a family coming to terms with multiple kinds of losses. This play explores the emotional journey of parents trying to keep promises to their deceased child that may cause more family turmoil. A beautiful play of enduring love through hardships. THE SECRET WISDOM OF TREES rose to the top 20 out of 250 plays and we hope this play swiftly finds opportunities to reach new audiences.

    The Jewish Plays Project recommends THE SECRET WISDOM OF TREES as a Semi-Finalist for the 11th annual Jewish Playwriting Contest. Our community of readers highly enjoyed this love letter and deeply moving tribute to a family coming to terms with multiple kinds of losses. This play explores the emotional journey of parents trying to keep promises to their deceased child that may cause more family turmoil. A beautiful play of enduring love through hardships. THE SECRET WISDOM OF TREES rose to the top 20 out of 250 plays and we hope this play swiftly finds opportunities to reach new audiences.

    ”

Development History

  • Reading, Moongate Productions, 2019
  • Reading, The Barrow Group Theatre Company, 2015

Awards

  • 11th Jewish Playwriting Contest
    Jewish Plays Project
    Semi-Finalist
    2022
  • Plays and Playwrights 2017 (2016's most interesting, innovative & engaging new plays)
    Indie Theater Now
    Selection
    2016