The Making Of

Christine Ebersole as Little Edie in Grey Gardens, the musical

Kelly Gonda is the founder of East of Doheny, the film, theater and television company that produced the Broadway production of Grey Gardens, the musical and the documentary GREY GARDENS: From East Hampton to Broadway.

What led you to make this film?

I made this documentary to bring theatre to a broader audience and to inspire people.

What were some of the challenges you faced in making this film?

The theatre unions.

Why do you think the original documentary Grey Gardens has continued to be such an indie icon throughout the years?

When the Maysles introduced [Grey Gardens], they treated Big Edie and Little Edie with respect. They displayed their eccentricities, but did not create caricatures or targets for people to laugh at. Truth is everlasting.

What didn’t get included in your film that you would have liked to?

It would have been nice to see more footage from the musical. However, there are union policies and issues that prevented that.

Tell us about a scene in the Broadway show that especially moved or resonated with you.

The song "Around the World" performed by Christine Ebersole. Everything moved me, but that song in particular resonated.

What has the audience response been so far? Have the people featured in the film seen it, and if so, what did they think?

Excellent. Warm and receptive.

The independent film business is a difficult one. What keeps you motivated?

Watching life become art is a motivation.

Why did you choose to present your film on public television?

I wanted to bring all that I love in theatre to film. I believe public television has legitimacy and integrity, just as theatre does. There is a true spirit to public television.

What impact do you hope this film will have?

I hope that this film will inspire people to believe in their ideas and develop them. I hope that it will inspire people to dream.

What are your three favorite films?

Love In the Afternoon, My Man Godfrey, Philadelphia Story; and anything with Katherine Hepburn.

What do you think is the most inspirational food for making independent film?

TRUTH.

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