How fleeting is a lifetime? How quickly does it pass?

What makes a life extraordinary — the milestones we celebrate, the tragedies we endure, or the small, quiet moments in between?

In Birthday Candles, Noah Haidle explores the life of Ernestine Ashworth — a journey that is both deeply personal and profoundly universal. Her life is full: at times vibrant, at times ordinary, but always meaningful. With humor and heart, the play moves through decades in just 90 minutes, reminding us of the beauty found in the everyday.

When I first read this play, it made me laugh, it made me cry, and it stayed with me long after I turned the final page. It felt like a natural choice for us at North Coast Rep — a story about time, love, and the rituals that define our lives.

Of course, even the most beautifully written play needs an extraordinary cast and creative team to bring it to life. I’m deeply grateful to this talented company — actors, designers, and crew — who have poured their hearts into this production. It has been a true joy to collaborate with them in creating an experience that we hope feels both lasting and life-affirming.

Thank you for joining us in this celebration of the ordinary made extraordinary.

Warmest regards,

David Ellenstein
Artistic Director