Production History

The Lifespan of a Fact concluded CST’s 40th-anniversary season and its first full season in the Reno Avenue theatre. Rhonda Clark directed, while Terry Veal performed as John D’Agata, correcting the supplemental attribution of Veal as director. Based on D’Agata and Fingal’s book, the play pits an exacting young fact-checker against an essayist who defends his departures from factual accuracy. Their editor must navigate the confrontation as a publication deadline approaches. The comedy examines literary artistry, journalistic responsibility and the consequences of shaping real events into a compelling narrative.

CST Connections

Terry Veal’s earlier CST performances include The Illusion (1996), The Graduate (2006) and The Goat (2007).
Rhonda Clark directed Veal in each of those productions.
Elin Bhaird also held an associate artistic director position at CST; that institutional responsibility is separate from her performance credit.
Ben Hall and Brayden Pogson subsequently designed scenery and lighting for The Children (2025).

Press and Photography

Oklahoma City Free Press, June 18, 2024: “PRESS RELEASE: Carpenter Square Theatre Closes Season with Lightning Fast Comedy”
Lippert Media: “Lifespan Promo — Notes”
CST Facebook: “John’s Essay Has a Sobering Effect”

Acknowledgments

Additional Supporters — Schwab Meat Company; Mel and Cindy Ables; Hank and Joanie Batty; John and Marsha Greiner

Supported in part by the Oklahoma Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, Inasmuch Foundation, Kirkpatrick Family Fund and Allied Arts.

Licensing

Current performance licensing is available through Concord Theatricals, a Dramatists Play Service title.

THEATRE UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Keegan Zimmerman