Executive Letter for Feb. 2015: L’art pour l’art
As the field faces the uncertain future, might ensemble theatres—with their mix of continuity and adaptability, and their focus on the artistic mission—point the way forward?
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.
5 Books Tell Broadway Tales, Some Fresh and Some Stale
Several books tell the rich history of New York’s commercial theatre district from a variety of angles. What about its future?
5 Theatre Couples Who Work Together to Stay Together
We talked to 10 theatre artists about the trials, tribulations and triumphs of collaborating—in work and in life.
Offscript: The Lace-Curtain Irish Edition
A critic’s round table on David Lindsay-Abaire’s oft-performed ‘Good People,’ as well as chat about Sean Graney, diversity and Taylor Mac.
Redefining Puppetry at Chicago’s International Puppet Theater Festival
Festival founder Blair Thomas aimed to challenge the conventional notions of puppetry and maybe invent some new models along the way during this 12-day Chicago event.
American Blues Theater Announces 2015-16 Season
The ensemble theatre’s season will include Richard Nash’s ‘The Rainmaker,’ James Still’s ‘Looking Over the President’s Shoulder’ and ‘Little Shop of Horrors.’
The Real Story Behind Sean Graney’s Return to the Hypocrites
The director left the company he founded to pursue his own muse. But he’s since learned that theatre is about community, and leadership is about service. Oh—and he had some time and money on his hands.
