Barry Middleton

The Co-Pay Script Barry Middleton

Most of us have had at least one unpleasant encounter with the Medical-Industrial Complex. Those dealing with significant medical problems soon learn that the pressure of being seriously ill is compounded by financial burdens, difficult decisions, and life changing challenges. Co-Pay is the story of one man's struggle through this experience. His career, his future marriage and his ability to cope all hang in the balance. Co-Pay is not heavy handed nor is it political beyond the conclusion that something is very wrong with the system. The setting and the characters create a personal backdrop as well as light hearted humor. Co-Pay is a fresh new medical musical for our times! About five years ago three friends and co-workers began writing a musical comedy about one man's struggle through the sometimes frightening world of our medical system. All three of the writers had worked in the medical field for many years. After a long search they found a wonderful musical director. Part of their motivation was to help a friend through his battle with recurrent cancer. Cancer and the frustration, losses and bewilderment associated with becoming a survivor became the frame to tell the personal story of the protagonist. Little did they know that a second member of the writers group would be diagnosed with cancer before the project could be completed. The writers group include: Sena Arlandson, who wrote the book and is the driving force who has encouraged and cajoled everyone to keep working and never give up. Rich Mikesh is a cancer survivor and one of two song writers on the project. When you hear his work you will all realize - he's been there. Barry Middleton is the other song writer. He has been an amateur poet and song writer for many years and is now engaged in his own battle with cancer. Berry Ayers, Musical and Artistic Director at The Players Theater In Sarasota, Florida joined the group several years ago and has provided a wonderful and sometimes haunting musical score.