In this captivating episode, Dave and co-host Jessica Anderson had the honor of sitting down with the award-winning playwright, producer, and actress Nancy Hasty, and her acclaimed husband, Ray Halsnick. We were thrilled to delve into the incredible journey of Nancy's acclaimed play, "The Flight of Jackie Cochran."
Our conversation began with the fascinating origin story of how Nancy was introduced to SOWAL House, thanks to our mutual friend Reynolds Henderson. Reynolds had been researching the remarkable aviator Jackie Cochran for years and felt compelled to share her story. This led to the introduction of Nancy, who had already been captivated by Jackie's story after learning about her through Ann Robinson, one of the founders of Grit and Grace.
Nancy shared how she discovered Jackie Cochran and became inspired to write the play. Her deep connection with Jackie's life, from her humble beginnings to her record-breaking achievements in aviation, resonated profoundly with Nancy. She emphasized how Jackie's relentless drive and ambition, coupled with her complex personal history, made her a compelling subject for a play.
Ray provided insights into their collaborative process, highlighting the countless hours spent researching and discussing Jackie's life. Nancy and Ray's dedication to authenticity and their shared commitment to bringing Jackie's story to life are evident in every aspect of the production.
We also discussed the unique experience of performing the play at SOWAL House, where Nancy not only performed the play but also participated in a Q&A session in character as Jackie Cochran. The audience's engagement and the profound connections made during these sessions underscored the lasting impact of Jackie's story.
Nancy's portrayal of Jackie has touched many lives, bringing to light the incredible achievements of a woman who deserves to be celebrated alongside other aviation pioneers like Amelia Earhart. Through her meticulous research and passionate performance, Nancy ensures that Jackie Cochran's legacy is remembered and honored.
- Stay updated for our upcoming documentary "The Flight of Jackie Cochran".
Stay tuned for the next episode, where Jessica and I will be interviewing Nancy in character as Jackie Cochran. This promises to be an unforgettable conversation, offering even deeper insights into the life of this extraordinary woman.
