E. M. Ashford, D.Phil.

Evelyn Ashford, now 80, is in town for her great-grandchild’s birthday- contrasting with Vivian, who has no family. Ashford first introduced Vivian to Donne. She was also the first to perceive Vivian shied away from people and preferred to keep to her studies. As a teacher, she encouraged Vivian to get out and enjoy life with others. Now at the end of Vivian’s life, she is quiet and gentle and loving.

Susie Monahan, R.N., B.S.N.

Susie, also 28, is Vivian’s primary nurse. She is not intellectually inclined. Susie’s strengths are in her caring and giving nature. She demonstrates a sensitivity in dealing with people the other characters in the play could not achieve. Susie puts the patient first, and she stands by Vivian until the very end.

Jason Posner, M.D.

Jason, 28 years old, is a researcher who must...