The sisters sit on their porch and watch the whales in the ocean and discuss the trials and tribulations of their lives.
[1][2] Berry first started writing the play in 1978 through a grant by the National Endowment for the Arts Creative Writing Fellowship, and it premiered in Baltimore at the Center Stage theatre in April 1980, where it was a part of their First Stage series.
[3][4] After receiving good notices, the play was moved to New York City and staged in 1982 at the WPA Theatre, Off-Broadway.
The producer of the film saw the Trinity Rep production, and purchased the rights as a vehicle for Lillian Gish.
Berry also wrote the screenplay for the film, which received mixed reviews, with positive recognition for the performances.