PREVIEW: “DEATH OF A SALESMAN” WITH DIRECTOR MATTHEW WILLSON
An American classic is coming to Dundas Little Theatre in October/November. Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman is one of the longest running plays in theatre history starting back in 1949 where it ran on Broadway for 742 performances alone. The play follows Willy Loman, an aging salesman whose grip on reality is slipping as he confronts his professional failures and family disappointments. The play explores themes of mental health, self-worth and how identity shapes and sometimes seeks to destroy us.
I had the pleasure of a virtual interview with director Matthew Willson. Willson found great acclaim with his 2025 Hamilton Fringe Festival drama The Damage Done by George F. Walker and now takes his particular knack for great dramas to Dundas Little Theatre. We discuss his inspiration, the highlights and challenges of staging the production and how this play continues to resonate with audiences.
What inspired you to direct Death of a Salesman?
MW: What was really inspiring about directing Death of a Salesman is the challenge of doing an American classic that isn’t often produced and performed.
Arthur Miller’s play is a classic piece of American theatre. What allows this play to continue to resonate with modern audiences?
MW: Well, Death of a Salesman should hopefully appeal to all audiences regardless of it being a classic. It is more relevant now in today's society then it has ever been - especially for men and in terms of how society views their mental health.
How does this production explore the themes of identity and self-worth?
MW: The entire play is focused around these themes and they apply to, and are explored by, every character but especially the Lomans. For the Loman family, they are constantly trying to prove, find and accept themselves - but they need to stop denying reality.
What have been some highlights and challenges of staging the play?
MW: The greatest highlight has definitely been working with such a talented and dedicated cast — their commitment has made this story come alive in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. As for challenges, this production has thrown a few curveballs my way, both technically and creatively. But those obstacles have also made the process more rewarding; they’ve forced us to be inventive and resourceful in our storytelling.
What do you hope audiences take away from this production of Death of a Salesman?
MW: As a director, I hope we did a good job of staging Arthur Miller’s piece - both in terms of production but also performance. Each part has its challenges. I always want audiences to think about the characters even after they have left the theatre. I hope this production and the characters are memorable and leave a lasting impression.
Thank you Matthew for your insights regarding the upcoming production of Death of a Salesman! Tickets are on sale now and the first performance begins on Friday October 31. Look for my full review coming November 3!
Rehearsal photography by: Erik Peters
