One of New York’s pre-eminent off-Broadway theatre companies, Ensemble Studio Theatre, is celebrating 50 years devoted to developing new work. You can celebrate with them at their latest, William Jackson Harper’s “Travisville.” Setin Texas, a church community must finally facethe realities of civil rights.
Another fine theatre for new playwrights’ work is Claire Tow at Lincoln Center. Their next, “Plot Points in our Sexual Development” by Miranda Rose Hall asks how much honesty is possible in an intimate relationship.
Want a chance to catch The Daily Show’s Assif Mandvi in his Obie Award-winning “Sakina’s Restaurant?” It will be at Minetta Lane, and as timely today as it was 20 years ago.
If you’re interested in a fresh take on an American classic, head to St. Ann’s Warehouse for the much lauded Bard Summerscape production of ” Oklahoma!”
While at St. Ann’s — don’t fail to buy advance tickets for “The Jungle.” This recreation of the migrants’ camp in Calais was a major hit in London — read this five star review from Lyn Gardner in The Guardian.
The Irish National Treasure, Mikel Murfi, has written two plays for a very limited run, in rep, at Irish Arts. If you haven’t already experienced Mikel’s extraordinary storytelling skills, you might want to try both.
Although I don’t often have time for dance, I try to get to the annual “Fall for Dance Festival” at City Center. It’s a wonderful opportunity to see several international companies each night — for only $15!
While looking at City Center’s season, you might want to see what MTC is producing. The world premiere on the mainstage, “India Pale Ale,” is by Jaclyn Backhaus. She writes about a Punjabi weddingtaking place in a Midwestern small town. On stage two is “The Niceties” by Eleanor Burgess, which comes with fine reviews from its Boston production.
Enjoy the colorful, cool season — and several intelligent plays, too. Hope to see you at the theatre!
Carol Tambor publishes a monthly newsletter, which announces worthy shows coming to New York, along with occasional information about London theatre and, of course, the Edinburgh Fringe.