By: Bill Goldsmith, SP and Theatre Artist

Submitted by: Todd Lash, The Ohio State University and Kerensa Peterson, NBOME

 I am an actor, director and playwright, and have been a theatre artist for most of my life. I am one of the thousands of performing artists whose livelihood and passion has been put on hold by Covid 19. The survival of every performing arts organization in the USA  is quite literally in jeopardy. Our theatres, symphonies, operas, ballets – all closed. It’s   frightening to think how long it might be before our patrons will feel comfortable returning to the theatre. And you can’t blame them. I’m not ready to return, either.

The only breath of creative fresh air during this pandemic has been the privilege to be a Standardized Patient over zoom. It’s not only a chance to perform again, it’s the chance  to actually contribute something to this world. To make a difference during these  troubled times. Knowing that my work – and that of all the SPs – is helping these young  interns be better doctors makes my day! I admit it’s not the same reward I felt when we  were doing live testing – face to face with young doctors- but it’s satisfying, and  welcome work during this arts void. I am grateful for the opportunity to address this   challenge and adapt to the “zoom world.”  I’m proud to be a part of it.

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