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A Story That Spans Decades

When a closeted pulmonologist sacrifices
her greatest love for career survival in a
homophobic medical establishment, the
weight of that decision haunts her across
decades. But when a dying poet, a resilient
ex, and a defiant student all cross her path,
Patricia D. Smith must finally decide: will
she let her truth die with her or leave
behind something worth breathing for?

Meet the Cast

HEART/LUNG is performed by a dynamic small ensemble—actors shifting between identities, eras, and emotional worlds.

Patricia D. Smith (Currently Casting)

Patricia D. Smith

Patient #4 (Currently Casting)

Patient #4 / Mother / Reporter 1 / Doctor / Student

Natalie Hunter

Patient #3 / Dee-dee

Leeann Ortiz

Patient #2 / Nurse / Housewife / Claire

Rachel Kordell

Sandy / Sandra

Hayley Marks

Patient #1 / Maggie / Reporter 2 / Ms. Crane.

Artist Statement

From AJ Dwayne,
Playwright/Director:

HEART/LUNG began in 2010 during a playwriting class at
Montclair State University. I found the obituary of a trailblazing doctor—only one comment: her first patient. That became the seed.

I was inspired by Greek tragedy and wanted to explore
romance. I realized I had an opportunity to amplify others.
Over the next decade, I listened, revised, and learned.

This play is the result of 15 years of learning, unlearning, and

listening.

And I’m still listening.

— AJ Dwayne

Industry
Table Read

An exclusive table read of HEART/LUNG is available for industry partners, collaborators, and invited guests.
To request the viewing password, please contact us below.

iamajdwayne@gmail.com

A theatrical production exploring love, identity, and the courage to breathe freely.

Every love story has a heartbeat. This one has a breath.

Socials
Get In Touch

LSELoudStone@gmail.com

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