Dear theatre friends,
How could I not mention a play with the provocative title “The Importance of Doing Art”, now playing at 59e59? If you’ve ever wondered how much fakery goes into self-proclaimed artists’ “work”– perhaps this will hit the mark. Only until the 23rd.
Although a decade-old revival, I can’t urge you strongly enough to see “Marjorie Prime” by Jordan Harrison. I remember how moved I was by Lois Smith’s performance in the Playwrights Horizons premiere. I’m certain this 2nd Stage production will again convey the sweet, prescient science fiction tale, now directed by Anne Kauffman.
There’s still time to see “The Wasp” from a new-to-me company, Little Engine. Their mission is to bring foreign playwrights’ work to NY and produce them in unusual venues, not theatres. It’s by Olivier Award-winning Morgan Lloyd Malcolm– only until November 15th.
Playwrights Horizons is presenting “Practice” written by Nazareth Hassan, directed by Keenan Tyler Oliphant. The large ensemble cast portrays a company of actors, dancers and performance artists trying to achieve brilliance.
Sure to sell out, go to Irish Rep to snag seats for a holiday treat– their celebrated production of “It’s a Wonderful Life” — presented as a radio play adapted from Frank Capra’s classic film. Six actors will play dozens of characters, with breaks for vintage commercials and songs. It will play through the month of December.
Another nostalgic presentation comes from Ensemble Studio Theatre, co produced by Lucille Lortel Theatre and Latinx Playwrights Circle — “A Bodega Princess Remembers”, written and performed by Iraisa Ann Reilly. It’s a look back to a 1998 Feast of Three Kings Day which changed her life.
Lastly, not a play, but a broadcast: go to Natonal Theatre Live to find a venue for
“The Fifth Step” by David Ireland. Here’s a Guardian review which confirms that Ireland continues to confront, subvert, and gleefully entertain. I’m still hoping that my Award winner, “Ulster American” will delight us in NY.
More to come soon.. 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.