‘The Woodsman’ Gives the Tin Man a Backstory (and a Heart)
James Ortiz’s young company uses a mix of puppetry and human actors to create a wordless ‘Wizard of Oz’ prequel.
Previews
A Wooster Group Sing-Along With ‘Early Shaker Spirituals’
The reeling ecstasy of the troupe’s new “record album interpretation” comes via the most straightforward means imaginable.
The Cruel Humanity and Danger of ‘Social Security’
Christina Masciotti’s uneasily naturalistic play depicts a factory worker fallen on hard times and caught between two contrasting neighbors.
The Bourgie Pecking Order Breaks Down in ‘Barbecue Apocalypse’
Matt Lyle’s wild comedy, inspired by a mild real-life social humiliation, throws self-judgment and invidious class comparison on the grill next to the road kill.
Look at All the Lonely People in ‘Reverberation’
Matthew Lopez’s newest play, coming soon to Hartford Stage, tackles the intimacy gap in contemporary relationships.
Navigating Norms in ‘A Kid Like Jake’
Two parents are concerned about their young son’s love for Cinderella and playing dress-up. Should they be? Daniel Pearle’s play, coming soon to About Face Theatre, explores the question.
Virtual Reality, Real Vices in ‘The Nether’
Jennifer Haley’s unsettling play, a hit in L.A. and London now on its way to New York, both dramatizes and questions our immersion in technology.
The Fire This Time Festival Makes Space for New Black Voices
Now in its sixth year, the new-play festival begun by Kelley Girod will feature a premiere by Nathan Yungerberg, ‘Pousada, Azul,’ and several short plays.
Taylor Mac and Temporary Distortion: In for the Duration
Four- to six-hour performances seem to be proliferating at this year’s Under the Radar and COIL festivals. Why do artists—and audiences—want to go long?
A Little Help From a Friend in ‘Handicap This!’
Mike Berkson has cerebral palsy, Tim Wambach has been his personal aide for years—and the two have got some funny stories to share.
