SEATTLE: Seattle Repertory Theatre has announced its 2016–17 season, featuring a mix of new plays, musicals, and classics.
“I’m beyond thrilled to share these eight captivating and powerful stories with our audiences,” said artistic director Braden Abraham in a statement. “Our lineup this year explores the nature of power, both personal and political, and the sources of love, hope, and strength that we draw on to make a difference in our families and in our world. The new season reflects Seattle Rep’s expanding commitment to explore a rich variety of exciting voices and throughout the journey of the season, audiences will hear stories that speak directly to the times in which we are living.”
The season will open with Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun (Sept. 30–Oct. 30), directed by Timothy McCuen Piggee.
Following that will be the co-world premiere of Roz and Ray by Karen Hartman (Oct. 14–Nov. 13). The production will be coproduced with Victory Gardens Theater and be directed by Chay Yew. The play, set in 1976, follows a doctor trying to find a cure for twin hemophiliac boys.
Next will be the Olivier-winning play King Charles III by Mike Bartlett, directed by David Muse (Nov. 11–Dec. 11). The play, produced in association with American Conservatory Theater and Shakespeare Theatre Company, imagines the near-future reign of Charles and his battles for power with Harry, William, and Kate.
Around the same time will be Vietgone by Qui Nguyen (Dec. 2, 2016–Jan. 1, 2017), about how Nguyen’s parents met in America after the Vietnam War. May Adrales will direct the show, produced in association with Oregon Shakespeare Festival (where it’s currently running until Oct. 29).
After that is Woody Sez: The Life and Music of Woody Guthrie, by David M. Lutken with Nick Corley and Darcie Deaville, Helen Jean Russell, and Andy Teirstein (Jan. 6–Jan. 29, 2017). The show traces the life and music of Guthrie and incorporates his music. David Lutkin will play the musician.
Lisa Kron’s Well will follow (Feb. 10–March 5, 2017), about the relationship between a character based on Kron and her ailing mother. Abraham will direct.
The spring will continue with Sarah Burgess’s Dry Powder (March 17–April 16, 2017), a dark comedy about the financiers who shape the American economy.
The season will end with David Byrne and Fatboy Slim’s musical Here Lies Love (April 7–May 28, 2017), about the rise and fall of former Philippine First Lady Imelda Marcos. Annie-B Parson will choreograph and Alex Timbers will direct; both were involved in the original production at the Public Theater.
Seattle Rep was founded in 1963 and produces a season of plays, along with educational programs, new play workshops, and special presentations.
