Page 4 - A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN FINAL

a note from
Randy johnson

My journey with Janis Joplin began in September
2010 when Jeff Jampol arranged a meeting with
Michael Joplin, Laura Joplin and myself. Over
the course of the next month Michael and Laura
opened their hearts and shared their stories,
providing a rare insight into their sister Janis.

By October 10, 2010, I had an “idea” and began
writing. By February 2011, an extraordinary
team of actors, musicians, and designers had
been assembled, and the idea began to take
form. On May 21, 2011, that “idea” premiered
as One Night With Janis Joplin and the entire
run sold out almost immediately. That idea went
on to thrive at regional theatres across the country, consistently breaking box
office records, earning rave reviews, and gathering a total of 37 regional theatre
nominations and awards in every category for excellence in theatre. On October
10, 2013, three years to the day after it was conceived, that “idea” of mine, now
titled A Night With Janis Joplin, opened on Broadway to enthusiastic reviews and
standing ovations. The show became part of Broadway history, garnering a Tony
Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical - Mary Bridget Davies. The ultimate
measure of success for every theatre artist of making it to Broadway came true for
so many of us.

The triumph of A Night With Janis Joplin is a testament not only to the enduring
legend of Janis Joplin herself, but to the power of an “idea” and the collaborative
commitment of everyone involved since inception. Janis Joplin began as an ordinary
girl in Port Arthur, Texas, listening to the recordings of Nina, Odetta, Etta and Bessie.
Janis trusted her own inner voice and became an enduring legend. Her fame was
earned, her following grew as she grew, people were drawn to her and she was
drawn to them. I believe the same to be true for A Night With Janis Joplin.

As Janis said, “Don’t compromise yourself.” Trust your inner voice, follow through
and something miraculous will occur.

Sincerely,
Randy Johnson

P4 A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN