Schedule of Events:

September 26, 7:00 PM

Pulling It All Into The Current

STARRING LETTA NEELY

Delve into the intersections of queerness, Blackness, and consciousness as you embark on an emotional journey through the lives and struggles of a constellation of vibrant characters. From teenagers to veterans, elders to addicts, queers to teachers, each bring their unique perspective and share profound insights into the human experience.

Meet Rhonda, a fifteen-year-old whose path to self-discovery is filled with painful experiences. Follow Chocolate Marsh, a recovering addict, as he continues a transformative journey of healing and redemption. Join Laprecious, a teenage mother, as she navigates the delicate balance between her aspirations for her new daughter and protecting her from a harsh world.

Enter the vibrant world of Corner, a flamboyant artist whose art becomes a courageous voice of resistance against the gentrification of his beloved neighborhood. Experience the poetic brilliance of Professor Crooked-Leg Boo, a street poet whose evocative songs shed light on the harsh realities of street life.

And finally, be inspired by Preacher as he uplifts and motivates those around him with his unwavering faith and inspiring words straight from the middle passage.

Prepare to be transported on an emotional journey as Letta navigates the complexities of identity, self-discovery, redemption, and resilience.

Writer/Performer: Letta Neely

Director: Greg Allen

Running Time: 92 minutes

Genre: Spoken Word, Poetry, Drama

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September 27, 7:00 PM

To Distraction

Starring Frank Winters

Something isn’t right. And Oliver surely isn’t the one to figure it out — that would be his best friend. Only his best friend isn’t here anymore. And nobody else seems to care. Which leaves him, a desk editor at a dying newspaper, to finish his best friend’s final investigation. But the closer he gets, the less makes sense. And the walls close in. Whether he can dig his way out is up to him. A nocturnal thriller in one act.

Writer/Performer: Frank Winters

Running Time: 70 minutes

Genre: Drama

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September 28, 7:00 PM

Pretty, Witty Nell

Starring Hannah Attfield

Multi award-winning British verse playwright/director, Ryan J-W Smith, and Tony-nominated producer, Bradley R. Bernstein, join forces as the internationally acclaimed theatre company, Rogue Shakespeare®, to present the NY premiere of Smith’s latest (7th) verse play – the award-nominated, PRETTY, WITTY NELL, starring Hannah Attfield.

An original one-woman tragicomic history, written in rhyming iambic verse, PRETTY, WITTY NELL tells the true story of Nell Gwynne, the famous actress/prostitute, and mistress of the wild British monarch, King Charles II.

In the introduction to his new book of plays, ‘Rogue Shakespeare®: 3 plays’, Smith says he wrote the show as a celebration of Nell, and women on the stage. The world premiere took place in Hollywood, June 2019, where it delighted audiences and reviewers alike:

“A standout solo show – perfect!” – Broadway World

PRETTY, WITTY NELL was also nominated for the Hollywood Fringe International Award – an award which Smith previously won twice in 2015 & 2016. No stranger to awards, Smith’s previous accolades include: two-time Encore Producers’ Award Winner; Hollywood Fringe Comedy Award Nomination; Amnesty International Freedom of Expression Award Nomination; Gandhi Foundation Award Recipient; Observer Producer of the Year Award; three-time Arts Council England Award Recipient, and countless professional 4 and 5-star reviews.

Writer/Director/Producer: Ryan J-W Smith

Producer: Bradley R. Bernstein

Running Time: 50 minutes

Genre: Drama, Comedy, Tragedy, Storytelling, Poetry, Classic

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September 29, 7:00 PM

They Called Me Rita

Starring Nelia McNicol

They Called Me Rita celebrates the successes and struggles of Rita Hayworth, shedding light on the 1940s Love Goddess. The audience experiences her turbulent, determined and emotional quest to reclaim her life from the men who shaped her, from early adulthood to her last transcendent moments.

Onyx Hartwell writes an original play, capturing the dynamic and raw essence of Rita Hayworth. Lil Malinich directs Nelia McNicol in They Called Me Rita, fusing artistic elements of dance and acting, bringing Rita Hayworth to life. This one-woman show explores themes of love, resilience, strength and grace, whilst unfolding profound truths. Rita’s life was indelibly defined by the tension between public persona and private truths.
Director: Lil Malinich

Playwright: Onyx Hartwell

Choreographer: Aydan Cohen

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Drama, Dance, Storytelling, Movement, Singing

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September 29, 8:30 PM

8:30 pm: Does This Show Make Me Look Fat?

Starring Cathy Ladman

Does This Show Make Me Look Fat? is the story of a very funny woman dealing with some not so funny circumstances. Well-known comedian, Cathy Ladman, takes you through the ups and downs of a young girl with a big dream and a big problem. How does one become a successful standup comic if one can’t actually stand up? Cathy shares, in the most beautifully raw and real way, her journey to becoming one of the most well-known female comics in the US, all while battling an eating disorder that almost killed her. Sound fun!? Believe it or not it is! You’ll laugh out loud, and you might even cry a little. Join us!

Co-Writer, Performer: Cathy Ladman

Co-Writer, Director: Laura Philbin Coyle

Running Time: 80 minutes

Genre: Comedy, Drama

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September 30, 2:00 PM

Midnight Cowboy Radio

Starring Ally Ibach

It’s Labor Day in Kentucky- 2022. Entertaining y’all for those long drives home, your favorite late-night radio talk show host gives you the local news and life advice- all while arranging an illegal abortion off-air.

Director: Patricia Runcie-Rice

Running Time: 30 minutes

Genre: Comedy, Political Satire

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September 30, 7:00 PM

Does This Show Make Me Look Fat?

Starring Cathy Ladman

Does This Show Make Me Look Fat? is the story of a very funny woman dealing with some not so funny circumstances. Well-known comedian, Cathy Ladman, takes you through the ups and downs of a young girl with a big dream and a big problem. How does one become a successful standup comic if one can’t actually stand up? Cathy shares, in the most beautifully raw and real way, her journey to becoming one of the most well-known female comics in the US, all while battling an eating disorder that almost killed her. Sound fun!? Believe it or not it is! You’ll laugh out loud, and you might even cry a little. Join us!

Co-Writer, Performer: Cathy Ladman

Co-Writer, Director: Laura Philbin Coyle

Running Time: 80 minutes

Genre: Comedy, Drama

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October 1, 2:00 PM

Does This Show Make Me Look Fat?

Starring Cathy Ladman

Does This Show Make Me Look Fat? is the story of a very funny woman dealing with some not so funny circumstances. Well-known comedian, Cathy Ladman, takes you through the ups and downs of a young girl with a big dream and a big problem. How does one become a successful standup comic if one can’t actually stand up? Cathy shares, in the most beautifully raw and real way, her journey to becoming one of the most well-known female comics in the US, all while battling an eating disorder that almost killed her. Sound fun!? Believe it or not it is! You’ll laugh out loud, and you might even cry a little. Join us!

Co-Writer, Performer: Cathy Ladman

Co-Writer, Director: Laura Philbin Coyle

Running Time: 80 minutes

Genre: Comedy, Drama

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October 3, 7:00 PM

Under Heaven’s Eyes – ‘the Systemic and Systematic Unjustified Killing’s of Black Lives’

Starring Christopher Tajah

Despite the global outcry and public machinations over the killing of George Floyd in America the Police continue to employ chokeholds. The continual discovery of new footage of members from communities of colour being brutalised and losing their lives at the hands of law enforcement entrusted to protect and serve them shows this to be a systematic problem. It will also show how systemic and systematic societal racism squeezes’ communities of colour to the margins. Meanwhile, in Britain, is there a parallel history of systemic and systematic racism which has pervaded society instilling an underlined racist mistrust between the Police and the Black community?

The backdrop of ‘Under Heaven’s Eyes’ is Covid-19, the worst flu pandemic to hit the world for over a century bringing everything into focus for Michael highlighting the discrimination, inequality and unlawful disproportionate killings of communities of colour that die at higher rates than the white population. Michael Livington works as an Accountant and lives in London, UK, comfortably and contented. But ever since he viewed the killing of George Floyd, Michael hasn’t been able to get it out of his mind, throwing his life into freefall.

Writer/Actor: Christopher Tajah

Producer: Pulse, Thought and Spirit Theatre Company Ltd

Composer, Music Director: Paloma Verseda Bravo

Sound Designer: Kerri Chesser

Running Time: 100 minutes

Genre: Tragedy, Storytelling, Poetry, Solo-performance, True Story, Political Theatre, Contemporary Black British History, Contemporary African American History, Under-Represented Voices

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October 5, 7:00 PM

HAVEN WAITS FOR EVERLY

Starring Tom Frueh

For many of us, finding true love can seem elusive, unlikely or even impossible. But Haven isn’t about to accept such restrictions. In fact, he’s always been obsessed with finding his soulmate—and now believes that at long last, he has found it in Everly. There’s no time to waste in starting a new life together, and Haven’s plans begin to unfold late one night inside a Manhattan storage facility, where he surprises Everly with the news that they are leaving on a transatlantic voyage—their honeymoon cruise. Haven promises romance and mystery and excitement at each point in their itinerary, starting with Cadiz, Spain. But much to Haven’s surprise and dismay, Everly’s participation seems somewhat in doubt—and with each passing hour, it’s becoming increasingly unlikely that the trip will even happen. Haven grows more and more frustrated with Everly, but his commitment only intensifies. In fact, he’s decided nothing and no one will derail the voyage or their future together—even if he has to resort to murder. Nevertheless, Haven’s desperate plans for love continue to be thwarted, and he and Everly are soon plunged into a bizarre journey of mystery, deception, treachery, uncontrollable passion—and unspeakable horror.

Actor, Author of Book, Music, Lyrics: Tom Frueh

Director: Jen Jurek

Music Director and Accompanist: Chris Piro

Running Time: 95 minutes

Genre: Musical, Suspense, Horror

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October 7, 7:00 PM

Anna

STARRING LAURA WALKER

Anna, a struggling mother battling unresolved trauma, mental health, epilepsy, and a difficult family life, fights to retain her resilience every day. After so many years, it has begun to wane. In an attempt to put the pieces of her scattered life back together again, Anna starts a monthly virtual diary on her computer. These conversations with herself allow for a sense of rehabilitation; mending the tears in her psyche left by the trials of her past. However, with each entry, more challenges appear in the present. Her marriage strains, her mental health fluctuates, and her relationship with her beloved son, Laurie, becomes ever harder to conserve. Anna slowly finds that the past is only a part of the puzzle when it comes to recovery. In order to move forward, the past must be accepted and the present must be lived in. For nothing is more precious than time. Anna seeks to pose the question, “How can we move on? And how should we?”

Running Time: 70 minutes

Genre: Drama, Multi-Media, Storytelling

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October 8, 2:00 PM

Hi, My Name Is...

Starring Katy White

An original, one-woman show that employs a schizophrenic story-telling style, Katy and Katherine take the audience on a hilarious, heartbreaking journey, as they unwittingly reveal the contradictory mess that lives inside all of us. This piece is an anthropomorphic exploration of the self-talk we all do, and what it means to be truly ourselves, when we have no clue what that means. Katy and Katherine invite the audience to vote on which personality should get to be the dominant one, effectively erasing an entire part of themselves in the process. As each tries to sway the audience, they unwittingly reveal the contradictory mess that lives inside all of us. Through frank, and honest storytelling, Katy and Katherine unravel what it means to be a person struggling to determine what it means to be “Me”.

Writer/Performer: Katherine “Katy” White

Director: Alicia Lion Januzzi

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Drama, Comedy, Storytelling, Solo-Show, Audience Participation

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October 10, 7:00 PM

If It Bleeds It Leads

Starring Sean Allison

Generations of my family have been journalists. That’s how I got a job shooting television news overnight in New York City as a one-man camera crew despite the fact that I was a twenty-one-year-old, two-time college dropout living in Westchester with my parents.

Set against the ultra violent, unstable times of New York City in 1993, If It Bleeds It Leads is the true story of my time coming of age chasing murder, mayhem, and love behind the wheel of an auctioned-off cop car on the streets of the biggest media market in the world.

Ride along, stand on the corners…meet the people, the cops, the firefighters, the perps, the victims and the denizens of the night that shaped my very personal journey into the American caste systems of money, race and privilege.

New York filmmaker Joshua Zeman (Cropsey, Sons of Sam) describes If It Bleeds It Leads as “a memoir of a time in New York City best described as the Wild West.”

Director: Shae D’lyn

Running Time: 100 minutes

Genre: Storytelling, Drama, Tragedy

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October 11, 7:00 PM

1953 Race For The Summit

Starring Om Raj Raut

Tomorrow is a big day. Our first attempt to reach the summit. That was our plan, but mountains have their own plan.’ Set the night before Sherpa Tenzing Norgay makes history with Sir Edmund Hillary by becoming the first people to reach the summit of Mount Everest, this one-man show charts his thoughts and fears at the attempt ahead. He relives his other attempts, hampered by avalanches and snowfall until the anxiety and exhaustion transform into the exhilaration of success

Writer/Producer: Om Raj Raut

Director: Ayusha Sanjel Chetri

Running Time: 40 minutes

Genre: Drama, Narrative Storytelling

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October 12, 7:00 PM

Hummingbird

Starring Misha Gonz-Cirkl

Every parent must find a way to battle the monsters under the bed for their children and be the buffer for all of life’s hardships, personal obstacles, and emotional grief that their children may face as they grow.

My mother was that for me and my siblings: a smart, unassuming and doting mother who fought diligently to protect her ‘nest’ single handily. If it were up to her she’d lasso the world to tame it for ‘her babies,’ but life is unpredictable, and the unfair realities of the ‘real world’ came early for our family. By the time I was 13, I already experienced death, was having problems in school, and although I have a loving and supportive family, I often felt a sense of grief and loneliness.

Hummingbird is a nostalgic coming-of-age story about growing up in the Bronx and paying homage to my beloved mother. Tender and sometimes funny, it’s about the importance of memories, unwavering love, and that “where I come from” is more about holding on to the spirit of the woman who taught me how to move through this life confidently, love and create passionately, all while spreading my wings to soar!

Writer/Actor: Misha Gonz-Cirkl

Director: Juliette Jeffers

Running Time: 90 minutes

Genre: Drama/Comedy/Storytelling

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October 13, 7:00 PM

Between Me & Them

Starring KiDané Kelati

On a quest for courage and self-identity, “Between Me & Them” is a coming-to-age story that unfolds through a series of therapy sessions unpacking milestones centered around bisexuality, body dysmorphia, daddy issues, and heartbreak. With flashbacks from some of his most pivotal memories from adolescence to adulthood, KiDané and his therapist, Dr. Alan, take a closer look at how and why these milestones have affected him. Stuck with the choice to let life’s growing pains help or hinder his self-worth, KiDané must learn to face his insecurities head-on before they eat him and themselves alive.

Writer/Performer: KiDane Kelati

Running Time: 45 minutes

Genre: Comedy, Storytelling, Performance Art

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October 13, 8:30 PM

I Feel The Need

Starring Loree Draude

Former U.S. naval aviator, Loree “Rowdy” Draude, was one of the first women to fly combat jets in the military. An accidental aviation pioneer, she served for ten years, during which she deployed twice to the Persian Gulf and was selected to be an instructor pilot and a landing signal officer.

In her award-winning one-woman show, I Feel the Need, she takes to the cockpit again and brings the audience along on a G-force trip as she lands on an aircraft carrier and recounts the adventure, humor and tragedy she experienced during her historic deployment on the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln.

Director: Beth Bornstein-Dunnington

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Storytelling

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October 14, 2:00 PM

Lee Marvin: Shadows of Saipan

Starring Matt DeCoster

Lee Marvin, enigmatic rebel, embodied a multifaceted persona forged through a tumultuous relationship with his father. Their complicated bond left an indelible mark on Marvin’s life, shaping his journey as a soldier, actor, and husband.

While his father’s words inflicted wounds, Marvin’s spirit embraced rebellion. He refused to conform to societal norms, challenging the status quo. This defiance propelled him to enlist in the Marines, where he exhibited bravery and resilience during World War II, earning him a Purple Heart.

Marvin’s personal life was marred by a notorious palimony lawsuit with his live-in love, Michelle. This entanglement shed light on their complex relationship, marked by addiction, resentment, and betrayal. Despite the turbulence, Marvin’s vulnerability shone through, providing a glimpse into the depths of his character.

Amidst the chaos, Lee Marvin’s acting career flourished. With his magnetic presence and chameleon-like abilities, he transcended boundaries and captivated audiences. His performances showcased a blend of brilliance, humor, and violence, revealing the intricate layers that defined him.

In exploring Lee Marvin, one must venture beyond the shadows of his darkest moments. Only then can we appreciate the extraordinary complexity of a man who defied categorization, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of entertainment.

Writer: Matt DeCoster and Gabrielle Berberich

Producer: Michael Howard Studios

Running Time: 15 minutes

Genre: Drama, Storytelling

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October 14, 7:00 PM

Unseen

Starring Kimberly Prentice

Grab your “all access” pass into the mysterious world of Broadway’s backstage! Follow veteran “star dresser” Pam as she works her magic through costume changes, confrontations, and quirky actor demands all while staying hidden in the shadows with the rest of the crew. When the stress of invisibility gets heavy, supportive allies rally and equip her to stand up, curse like a sailor, and be seen. This may be a solo show, but Kimberly Prentice quick-changes her way through thirty-one distinct characters as we follow Pam’s hilarious – and sometimes harrowing – journey of working in the dark, unseen, while trying not to disappear.

Director: Stephanie Franz

Writer: Kimberly Prentice

Running Time: 50 minutes

Genre: Drama, Comedy, Storytelling

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October 14, 8:30 PM

Under Your Skin

Starring Jackie Smook

“Her show is autobiographical, funny, reflective, and wholly original while at the same time celebrating classic music from more than 100 years ago.” – Chicago Cabaret Week

Chicago creative Jackie Smook (American Idol, United Solo Theater Festival BEST EMERGING ARTIST AWARD, The Second City) comes to the Annoyance with her outrageously hilarious solo show – Making her 54 Below debut in the spring, featured in United Solo theater Festival, featured in The Chicago Tribune for “8 Things to do around Chicago this weekend”, as well as a solo act in Chicago Cabaret week and currently holds a residency at the famous Davenport’s Piano Bar. Smook, along with a gaggle of her own expertly crafted puppets, put on a show that everyone will adore. Under Your Skin tells the story of the time Smook worked as a medical assistant during her summer vacation, a job she never expected. Mostly because she had no prior training and this, of course, caused utter chaos to ensue. This is a comedic telling, in real time, of her grueling experiences told through puppetry and storytelling, multiple original characters and songs through the ages. Originally planned to premiere at The Second City after its first preview at Davenport’s Piano Bar before the pandemic, Under Your Skin has been Chicago’s talk of the town with many sold out performances and Festival Features.

Pianist, Music Director: Joey Chimes

Director, Co-Writer: Jackson Zinn-Rowthorn

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Comedy, Satire, Puppets, Puppetry, Story Telling, Musical, Music, Opera, Musical theater, contemporary music

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October 15, 2:00 PM

Messianic Moments And Cosmic Conversations

Starring Barbara Heller

Messianic Moments And Cosmic Conversations is an original musical about One Woman trying to make good on a deal she made with the Divine. Along the way she finds out a thing or two about what all humans seem to have in common. The multi-dimensional original characters and songs written by award-winning actress podcaster and playwright Barbara Heller, give pause for thought. All stories from the show are based on a long line of people she has interviewed from her award-winning podcast and documentaries. Check out more about her award-winning podcasts, documentaries and shows at BarbHeller.com and SeeOneBeautifulSoul.com

Get your tickets now for this funny and heart-hitting musical.

Director: Eva Minemar

Running Time: 55 minutes

Genre: Musical, Multi-Media, Performance Art, Improv

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October 17, 7:00 PM

Baggage

Starring Melissa Rose

If you move, you will find the motion. What happens if you stop long enough to feel everything you’ve avoided? It’s 3am and she’s ready to escape her memories, decisions, and self destruction. In this memoir, one woman tells the story of her experiences as a touring spoken word artist in the United States and Europe as she questions the meaning behind her trauma and the salvation of creativity. Written and performed by international spoken word poet, Melissa Rose and accompanied by music from Cullen Vance, Baggage blends elements of travel memoir, dramatic monologue, and poetry together into a stand alone experience of vulnerability and connection.

Unpack your mess and stay awhile.

Writer/Actor: Melissa Rose

Musical Director: Cullen Vance

Director: Mia Vance

Running Time: 90 minutes

Genre: Drama, Poetry, Storytelling

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October 18, 7:00 PM

MENACE

Starring Benny Akinyemi-Finisher (B. A-Finisher)

MENACE?! Written and Performed by B. A-Finisher (Benny Akinyemi-Finisher) is a one person multi-dimensional play which narrates real-life events of gender-based violence as it affects both sexes through introspection of the root causes of this violence which causes life-long trauma, shame and stigmatisation. A unique perspective of men as victims of violence is also interwoven into the play.

After its debut in Lagos, Nigeria in the month of August 2022, the British Council partnered with the producer to have the play staged to mark the United Nations 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, November/December 2023.

Writer, Performer, Creative Director: B. A-Finisher

Technical Assistant, Media Coverage: Irene C. Tetteh

Stage Manager, Production Manager: Mandu Okpako

Running Time: 50 minutes

Genre: Storytelling, Drama, Movement, Poetry, Tragedy

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October 19, 7:00 PM

Things I Learned In Isolation

Starring Mary Miller

THINGS I LEARNED IN ISOLATION is a complete and truthful account of my experiences when I (along with the rest of the world) was put into isolation due to the coronavirus pandemic. During that time, none of us knew how long it would last. How many people would get sick. Or how our lives would be affected. So, I decided to document what happened to me as a way to make sense of my feelings and connect with others by sharing it all on Facebook. The result is a very funny but always honest account of the things I learned in isolation from March 18 – June 11, 2020. Written and performed by award-winning playwright Mary Miller, the play is a 45-minute one-woman show, staged as a lecture, where the audience will serve as guests to a very enthusiastic narrator!

Running Time: 45 minutes

Genre: One Woman Show

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October 19, 8:30 PM

Unseen

Starring Kimberly Prentice

Grab your “all access” pass into the mysterious world of Broadway’s backstage! Follow veteran “star dresser” Pam as she works her magic through costume changes, confrontations, and quirky actor demands all while staying hidden in the shadows with the rest of the crew. When the stress of invisibility gets heavy, supportive allies rally and equip her to stand up, curse like a sailor, and be seen. This may be a solo show, but Kimberly Prentice quick-changes her way through thirty-one distinct characters as we follow Pam’s hilarious – and sometimes harrowing – journey of working in the dark, unseen, while trying not to disappear.

Director: Stephanie Franz

Writer: Kimberly Prentice

Running Time: 50 minutes

Genre: Drama, Comedy, Storytelling

October 20, 7:00 PM

The Persistent Guest

Starring Jodeen Revere

Although cancer is the scaffolding of “The Persistent Guest”, it is a raw and often funny story about a middle aged woman who not only faces her mortality multiple times, but looks at the toll a lifetime spent being a heedless giver with zero boundaries has taken on her physical and emotional health. It is also an immersion into my particular psychedelic experience of chemo treatment.

The Persistent Guest began as a blog, to keep myself sane and my community informed, when I went through my first bout of breast cancer in 2011. After my third bout,, I thought it might become a book. It wasn’t until I did a live reading of the manuscript in 2019 that I realized it was actually the bones of a one woman show.

I began rehearsals with Boise Contemporary Theater’s artistic director Benjamin Burdick directing and we developed a fully staged production which premiered at Boise Contemporary Theater in October of 2022 for a very successful three week run. Now, dismantled and back to its original concept, I bring you The Persistent Guest Unplugged. Me, a stool and no net under the thoughtful directive guidance of Jessica Ires Morris. Strap in.

Writer/Performer: Jodeen Revere

Director: Benjamin Burdick

Director: Jessica Ires Morris

Running Time: 75 minutes

Genre: Drama, Comedic, Stand up, Storytelling

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October 21, 2:00 PM

Radically Unsure

Starring Holly Smith

“Radically Unsure” is the result of Holly Smith turning her faith crisis into a one woman sketch comedy show by challenging her beliefs and the faith community she was raised in. Whether you were brought up in an ultra-religious household or not, this show is sure to make you laugh. Holly offers a silly critique of the American Evangelical world through personal experience and all the while makes sure she doesn’t take herself too seriously. Holly explores faith, anxiety, and social awkwardness through a wide range of characters including herself, a Sunday school teacher leading a lesson on purity, and even her own judgemental guardian angel. This show has everything from comedic sketches to original songs, video sketches, and even a little improvisation. When Holly Smith’s “Radically Unsure” ends, you’ll be praying for more.

Creator/Actor: Holly Smith

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Sketch Comedy (live sketches & video sketches), Singing, Dancing, Improv/Audience Interaction

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October 21, 7:00 PM

Keith Moon: The Real Me

Starring Mick Berry

In this 90-minute, one-man show, many of The Who’s greatest hits are played with live drumming – Keith Moon style. The play explores the mind of Keith Moon, as he attempts to save himself from the unbearable burden of living up (and down) to his self-created legend of ‘Moon the Loon’. Actor-musician Mick Berry takes the audience on an emotional odyssey through the eyes of Keith, frequently bringing the audience to laughter and tears. By the show’s end, the audience intimately knows the man behind the myth – his acute vulnerability and insecurity, and his struggle to escape the ever-looming rock and roll crash landing.

Writer/Performer: Mick Berry

Producer: Stephen Levandowski

Director: Nancy Carlin

Running Time: 90 minutes

Genre: Drama, Comedy Tragedy, Musical

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October 22, 2:00 PM

Unseen

Starring Kimberly Prentice

Grab your “all access” pass into the mysterious world of Broadway’s backstage! Follow veteran “star dresser” Pam as she works her magic through costume changes, confrontations, and quirky actor demands all while staying hidden in the shadows with the rest of the crew. When the stress of invisibility gets heavy, supportive allies rally and equip her to stand up, curse like a sailor, and be seen. This may be a solo show, but Kimberly Prentice quick-changes her way through thirty-one distinct characters as we follow Pam’s hilarious – and sometimes harrowing – journey of working in the dark, unseen, while trying not to disappear.

Director: Stephanie Franz

Writer: Kimberly Prentice

Running Time: 50 minutes

Genre: Drama, Comedy, Storytelling

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October 24, 7:00 PM

I’m Harvey Milk

Starring Ben Beasley

“I’m Harvey Milk!” Made its world premiere for gay pride month last June in Colorado. Colorado TINTS is delighted to bring it to NYC for the United Solo Festival Octovef 24th 2023. Written by Mike Broemmel and directed by Greg West, this one-man show stars newcomer Ben Beasly as the inimitable Harvey Milk. Called one of the most significant individuals in rhe gay eights movement, Harvey Milk invisioned with equal standards for all people. As suporvisor in San Francisco Milk passed some of the most groundbreaking legislations that secured equal rights for gay men and women.

Actor: Ben Beasley

Technical Assistant: Greg West

Running Time: 75 minutes

Genre: Drama, Storytelling, Multi-Media

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October 25, 2:00 PM

Keith Moon: The Real Me

Starring Mick Berry

In this 90-minute, one-man show, many of The Who’s greatest hits are played with live drumming – Keith Moon style. The play explores the mind of Keith Moon, as he attempts to save himself from the unbearable burden of living up (and down) to his self-created legend of ‘Moon the Loon’. Actor-musician Mick Berry takes the audience on an emotional odyssey through the eyes of Keith, frequently bringing the audience to laughter and tears. By the show’s end, the audience intimately knows the man behind the myth – his acute vulnerability and insecurity, and his struggle to escape the ever-looming rock and roll crash landing.

Writer/Performer: Mick Berry

Producer: Stephen Levandowski

Director: Nancy Carlin

Running Time: 90 minutes

Genre: Drama, Comedy Tragedy, Musical

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October 25, 7:00 PM

#MeToo, a one-woman show

Starring Star Stone

Star takes us on a journey from childhood to adulthood cataloging her sexual experiences and investigating them. With topics like body autonomy, co-dependency, consent, boundaries, sex work, and spiritual sh*t, this is a show based on a true story and is a wild ride, filled with a lot of laughs and heart.

Playwright, Actress, Producer: Star Stone

Director: Jessica Lynn Johnson

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: True Story, Comedy, Storytelling, New Writing, Musical Numbers

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October 26, 7:00 PM

After I’m Dead, You’ll Have to Feed Everyone

Starring Vivien Straus

In “After I’m Dead, You’ll Have to Feed Everyone – The Rollicking Tale of Ellen Straus,” Vivien Straus portrays her beloved mother, a refugee from Nazi Europe who emigrates to NYC, marries a California dairy farmer after a two-week courtship, and emerges as a national environmental pioneer and matriarch of the organic food movement. The story encompasses their mother-daughter relationship, Ellen’s battle with cancer, and the evolution of a pioneering activist who created a national model for protecting farmland from destruction.

With joyful renditions and witty dialogue, it’s a fresh and funny love letter that takes the audience through to the end of her mother’s life – during which Vivien reassures her mother that she won’t serve chicken salad at her memorial – punctuated with delightful cow facts and farm life stories.

In the mad-cap tribute, Straus portrays 11 characters (10 humans and 1 cow).

The show originally played to 17 sold-out performances (2,100+ attendees) in the restored hay barn at Straus Home Ranch, where Ellen and her husband Bill lived until death-did-they-part after 52 years of marriage.

Critics lauded “After I’m Dead” as “One of the best celebrations of life imaginable.” “Entertaining.” “Full of love.” “Totally engaging.”

Website (with video trailer, press coverage and reviews): vivienstraus.com

Writer/Performer: Vivien Straus

Directed by Elly Lichenstein

Produced by Michael Straus and Denise Rocco-Zilber

Marketing & Public Relations by Michael Straus

Dramaturgy by Jayne Wenger

Contains a sample of Cows, by Sandra Boynton and Tom Ford, courtesy of Concord

Running Time: 65 minutes

Genre: Comedy, Tragicomedy

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October 27, 7:00 PM

Tales of a Blerd Ballerina

Starring Valoneecia Tolbert

Tales of a Blerd Ballerina [because my love of Pearl Jam doesn’t ease my struggle] has been described as a “hilarious and honest journey of self-awareness, [and] accepting ourselves [with the] ability/space to laugh at our flaws.” This show came from a desperate need to understand my own awkward black nerd journey of constantly “failing” forward while trying to break generational curses.

During this very special time in history, when know and are constantly told that The Black Community is diverse, brilliant, and creative yet so many of the stories sold surround trauma, brutality, and poverty instead of the humor, light, and yes- incredibly awkward and painfully uncool experiences that can bind us. It’s time for this story.

Performer, Playwright, Co-Choreographer: Valoneecia Tolbert

Director: Florinda Bryant

Co-Choreographer: Kelly Broadway

Musician-Creator: Johann Solo

Running Time: 75 minutes

Genre: Multi-Media, Comedy, Choreopoem

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October 28, 2:00 PM

MEDEA’S BURQUA

Starring MARSELA LENA (Ms)

Why revisit a Greek myth, a persona from Greek Drama, like Medea and add a Burqa to her? What does it mean for a woman of different origin, culture or religion to be asked to abandon her “identity” in order to look like anyone else in the Western world? What is this “inescapable” pressure for homogeneity?

The performance follows Medea and her murders, exploring the itinerary from her “masculine” upbringing by her royal father to her abandonment by her husband in a foreign country and her vulnerability in a place that despises her, although it wants to change her. Patriarchy has pushed her to killings but in a gesture of self awareness, she tries to escape the “expected” killing of her children with her own hand. She aspires to be the first Medea who does not kill her children… she lets them face by themselves the dangers of life. She may be a killer created by a patriarchal society, but she is determined to save the future she is giving birth to.

Writer: Andreas Flourakis

Director: Kyriaki Spanou

Set/Light: Zoe-Molyvda Fameli

Costume: Martha Foka

Music: Alexandros Tsionas

With Marsela Lena as Medea

Produced by Thessaly Theatre, Greece

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Performance Art

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October 28, 7:00 PM

The Book of Shame

Starring Victor Verhaeghe

The Book of Shame is exactly what the title implies: It’s a story of one man’s shame. How it affected him physically, emotionally and spiritually. It’s about guts. Literally and figuratively. Like… Have you ever had a stomachache where it’s like the four horse men of the apocalypse ride into your stomach on horses with machetes for feet? And they’re romping and chopping? Ya know…like galloping and chopping? Really hard? With their sharp, machete feet!? And riding on their backs is a gang of overweight, angry, right wing, psychopathic chainsaw sculptor’s and they’re creating an installation about the birth of hatred inside you? You ever have that? That’s what this show will feel like. Only funnier. It will feel like getting tickled by sharp scissors, only it won’t hurt. Much.

Writer/Actor: Victor Verhaeghe

Director: Kristin Hangii

Running Time: 70 minutes

Genre: Storytelling

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October 28, 8:30 PM

After I’m Dead, You’ll Have to Feed Everyone

Starring Vivien Straus

In “After I’m Dead, You’ll Have to Feed Everyone – The Rollicking Tale of Ellen Straus,” Vivien Straus portrays her beloved mother, a refugee from Nazi Europe who emigrates to NYC, marries a California dairy farmer after a two-week courtship, and emerges as a national environmental pioneer and matriarch of the organic food movement. The story encompasses their mother-daughter relationship, Ellen’s battle with cancer, and the evolution of a pioneering activist who created a national model for protecting farmland from destruction.

With joyful renditions and witty dialogue, it’s a fresh and funny love letter that takes the audience through to the end of her mother’s life – during which Vivien reassures her mother that she won’t serve chicken salad at her memorial – punctuated with delightful cow facts and farm life stories.

In the mad-cap tribute, Straus portrays 11 characters (10 humans and 1 cow).

The show originally played to 17 sold-out performances (2,100+ attendees) in the restored hay barn at Straus Home Ranch, where Ellen and her husband Bill lived until death-did-they-part after 52 years of marriage.

Critics lauded “After I’m Dead” as “One of the best celebrations of life imaginable.” “Entertaining.” “Full of love.” “Totally engaging.”

Website (with video trailer, press coverage and reviews): vivienstraus.com

Writer/Performer: Vivien Straus

Directed by Elly Lichenstein

Produced by Michael Straus and Denise Rocco-Zilber

Marketing & Public Relations by Michael Straus

Dramaturgy by Jayne Wenger

Contains a sample of Cows, by Sandra Boynton and Tom Ford, courtesy of Concord

Running Time: 65 minutes

Genre: Comedy, Tragicomedy

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October 29, 2:00 PM

Texas Hellfire

Starring Katharine Everett

“Texas Hellfire” takes you on a ride through the embers of tragedy and the resilience of the human spirit. This gripping tale immerses you in the aftermath of an inferno that tests the boundaries of love, loss, and faith.

Based on real events, Katharine shares her journey as a grieving sister navigating the sudden, tragic loss of her cattle-ranching brother in a massive wildfire. Her journey becomes a compelling exploration of the ties that bind siblings and the resilience of the human heart.

As the tale unfolds, you’ll meet a colorful cast of characters hailing from both small-town Texas and Los Angeles—who bring unexpected humor and a raw humanity that emerges from the ashes of devastation. Through laughter and tears, this one-person performance skillfully unravels the intricacies of loss.

“Texas Hellfire” is a testament to the enduring human spirit, celebrating the courage to keep going, and ultimately, leaving you with an indelible spark of hope.

Don’t miss the world premiere of this theatrical tour de force.

Writer/Performer: Katharine Everett

Director: Lauren Weedman

Producers: Toby Meuli, Allison Tolman

Running Time: 65 minutes

Genre: Drama, Multi-media

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October 31, 7:00 PM

Alexa, Play

Starring Alexa Elmy

Alexa, Play, is a comedy, following the weekly meetings of Alexas Anonymous, a support group run by one very motivated Alexa. Alexa’s life has been so disrupted by the appropriation and abuse of her name that she seeks healing with the larger Alexa community. Her struggle has seeped into her family relationships, her ability to date, and her closest friendships. The newfound purpose she finds in running the group gives her a positive outlet for the anguish she is experiencing, however cracks in Alexa’s charismatic façade quickly begin to appear, hinting at the darker reality she is withholding. The bonding and catharsis become the basis for her twisted unraveling. And the attending Alexas and “Alexa Adjacents” are there to bear witness to it all. Each meeting focuses on completing a step towards healing, structured after the 12-Steps Program. The play tackles themes of sexism, capitalism, identity, and privilege.

Producers: Alexa Elmy and Girault Seger

Running Time: 65 minutes

Genre: Comedy, Immersive

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November 1, 7:00 PM

Divine Presence

Starring Algiin Ford

The story of the overlapping paths of one man’s journey through addiction, in and out of incarceration, and through the phases of recovery. Although the journey is a personal one, it has several cultural, socioeconomic themes. Weaving its way through the inherent obstacles of disenfranchisement when it becomes exacerbated by addiction. When the coping mechanism becomes a prison, leading to actual incarceration; into a tunnel, where there is seemingly no light. The miraculous experience of beginning to find oneself in recovery. Detailing how much is required, to guide a life from despair into contribution and repair .

Performer: Algiin Ford

Running Time: 42 minutes

Genre: Storytelling

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November 1, 8:30 PM

Texas Hellfire

Starring Katharine Everett

“Texas Hellfire” takes you on a ride through the embers of tragedy and the resilience of the human spirit. This gripping tale immerses you in the aftermath of an inferno that tests the boundaries of love, loss, and faith.

Based on real events, Katharine shares her journey as a grieving sister navigating the sudden, tragic loss of her cattle-ranching brother in a massive wildfire. Her journey becomes a compelling exploration of the ties that bind siblings and the resilience of the human heart.

As the tale unfolds, you’ll meet a colorful cast of characters hailing from both small-town Texas and Los Angeles—who bring unexpected humor and a raw humanity that emerges from the ashes of devastation. Through laughter and tears, this one-person performance skillfully unravels the intricacies of loss.

“Texas Hellfire” is a testament to the enduring human spirit, celebrating the courage to keep going, and ultimately, leaving you with an indelible spark of hope.

Don’t miss the world premiere of this theatrical tour de force.

Writer/Performer: Katharine Everett

Director: Lauren Weedman

Producers: Toby Meuli, Allison Tolman

Running Time: 65 minutes

Genre: Drama, Multi-media

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November 2, 7:00 PM

Divine Presence

Starring Algiin Ford

The story of the overlapping paths of one man’s journey through addiction, in and out of incarceration, and through the phases of recovery. Although the journey is a personal one, it has several cultural, socioeconomic themes. Weaving its way through the inherent obstacles of disenfranchisement when it becomes exacerbated by addiction. When the coping mechanism becomes a prison, leading to actual incarceration; into a tunnel, where there is seemingly no light. The miraculous experience of beginning to find oneself in recovery. Detailing how much is required, to guide a life from despair into contribution and repair .

Performer: Algiin Ford

Running Time: 42 minutes

Genre: Storytelling

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November 4, 7:00 PM

My Life is Not My Own

Starring Lucinda Carr

Step into the remarkable world of Harriet Tubman through the mesmerizing one-woman show, “”My Life is Not My Own.” Spend an hour with Harriet Tubman, a woman driven by love, conviction & unwavering faith, written and performed by Lucinda Carr. With deep admiration and awe-inspiring storytelling, Carr reveals Tubman’s extraordinary faith, which served as the guiding force behind her heroic actions.

Tubman’s unshakable belief that when she spoke to God, He would answer and guide her every step drove her incredible journey. Even when faced with desperate circumstances, Tubman trusted in divine direction. She recounted an instance when she needed money, following God’s instructions to sit and wait in a particular New York office. And just as she had unwavering faith, someone approached her, providing the exact amount she required. Yet, people doubted her, unsure if they could believe in the miracles she attributed to her conversations with the divine.

Lucinda Carr captures the essence of Harriet Tubman, paying homage to a woman whose unyielding faith and passion inspired the creation of, “”My Life is Not My Own.”” Ms. Carr sheds light on some lesser-known facts about the extraordinary life of Harriet Tubman and the power of faith and commitment.

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Poetry, Music, Musical, Concert, Puppetry, Magic, Multi-media, Classic, Performance Art

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November 4, 2:00 PM

Two Realities

Starring Roman Golovach

A simple guy from a small town through struggle and joy discovered a method of revealing talent. After 10 years of implementation, he went from waiting tables to becoming the CEO of successful IT companies. He now emerges an actor, musician, dancer, gamification expert, and mentor in his original motivational theatrical masterclass, “Two Realities,” as the quirky Headmaster of the legendary Portals Academy.

Welcome to your first day of class at the legendary Portals Academy!

Want to get better at living? What insights could you learn about life as a game?

“Two Realities,” is a thought-provoking one-man show, offering a unique blend of comedy, original live music, and pantomime, with a touch of mystery and deep educational content. Based on extensive research of game phenomena in human life, the show is written, directed and performed by Roman Golovach, that small-town guy, now eager to share his grand discovery of how everyone, including you, can reveal and develop talent.

Gamification practice has even led him to develop of an application, portals.academy, a personal growth resource, pushing you beyond goal-tracking to achieve talent as a state of mind.

The Headmaster invites and challenges you to experience life, in “Two Realities.”

Actor: Roman Golovach

Running Time: 120 minutes

Genre: Drama, Comedy, Dance, Movement, Musical, Pantomime, Storytelling, Performance Art

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November 7, 7:00 PM

Welcome to Splitsville

Starring Matt Sadowski

After a hiatus spanning almost two decades, Toronto filmmaker (Pretend We’re Kissing), playwright (In-Between), and actor (Power Rangers) Matt Sadowski makes a courageous return to the stage with his very first solo theatre production. Under the skilled direction of United Solo alumni Daniel Stolfi (Cancer Can’t Dance Like This), get ready to embark on an intimate and captivating journey.

The show invites you to visit the world of a hopelessly romantic, ADHD-ridden Dad navigating the ups and downs of life during a divorce amidst the chaos of Covid. Through a delightful blend of humor and cringe-worthy moments, join Matt as he moves in and out of apartments, revealing the hilarity and challenges of
his unique experiences. Three acts…rap…and a lotta **** to unpack.

This profoundly personal show explores the transient nature of life, capturing the losses we endure, the lessons we learn, and the yearning for love that drives us all. Authentic and heartfelt, Welcome to Splitsville invites you to embrace the joyous messiness of existence.

Laugh with him. Laugh at him. Laugh because it’s not you, or if it is…laugh at yourself.

Writer/Performer: Matt Sadowski

Director: Daniel Stolfi

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Drama, Comedy, Tragicomic, Storytelling, Stand-up, Music

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November 8, 7:00 PM

Einstein’s Violin: A Play in Three Movements

Starring Tom Schuch

Accompanied by his favorite classical music, Einstein begins to repair his precious violin, ’Lina.’ All the while he talks to a soon to be revealed muse about his love for music and its influence on his life and work. Through Einstein’s words and the beautiful precision of a classical music we celebrate the coming together of art, science, and love.

“I often think in music. I live my daydreams in music. I see my life in terms of music…I get (the) most joy in life out of music.” Albert Einstein

The Times
Enormous changes in the world were taking place during Einstein’s formative and most productive years influencing both his work and his view of the world. During the early to mid-20th Century an explosive evolution and experimentation in art, science, literature, politics, architecture, philosophy, and technology began to take place. Once thought of as a revolutionary, Einstein slowly became the ‘old guard’ of scientific advancement, butting heads with the current developers of quantum mechanics as he continued to search for the elusive unified field theory of everything. It is against this backdrop that we see Albert Einstein search for answers through the solace of his music.

Actor: Tom Schuch

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Drama

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November 9, 7:00 PM

Noor Inayat Khan: The Forgotten Spy

Starring Almanya Narula

An important inspiring story of heroism that was left out of the history books.

Did you know that Indians played a vital part in the allied victory of WW2? Did you know that an Indian princess fought the Nazis?

Meet NOOR INAYAT KHAN, Sufi Royalty turned British spy, thorn in Hitler’s side & the Gestapo’s worst nightmare.

Now cornered by the Nazis with nothing but death assured to her, in her final moments she will remind us who she is, why she matters and why she will always be a part of history. She fought alongside her enemy, the British, to fight a greater threat – the evisceration of life as we know it.

The Nazis never forgot her name, and after tonight’s show, you won’t, either.

Indian-Thai actress and writer Almanya Narula makes her Los Angeles stage debut as Noor Inayat Khan. A thrilling imagining of the last 30 minutes of her life before execution by Nazis, her final choices will change the outcome of a war we thought we knew everything about.

Producer/Writer/Playwright: Almanya Narula

Co-Producer: Nazia Chandiwalla

Running Time: 50 minutes

Genre: Drama, Poetry, WW2, History

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November 10, 7:00 PM

Last Year’s Eve

Starring Zachary Kazepis

Hugo was 8 years old when he came to the country as a refugee. He has spent the last 15 years living and working in this place, which he has gradually come to call home. Tomorrow, Hugo will leave the country and never return.

Making its American premiere, “”Last Year’s Eve”” is an original work by Zachary Kazepis, a Melbourne-based actor, writer, and musician. The play explores themes of identity, friendship, family, and isolation. It delves into the past, the present, and an unknown future.

It is a story about finding home.

“…A heart-rending story of displacement.” – Melbourne Observer

“…Exceptionally constructed and portrayed…”????½ – Artshub

“Last Year’s Eve is a moving and beautiful contemplation on the meaning of ‘home.’ It is something that most of us take for granted, yet it is vital to many displaced people around the world. Zachary Kazepis takes us on this journey with a gentle whisper of grief rather than a shout of protest… a whisper that is audible and embraced by the audience!””- Dr. Liz Jones, AO, La Mama Theatre

Performer, Writer, Producer: Zachary Kazepis

Running Time: 40 minutes

Genre: Storytelling, Drama, Multi-Media, Tragedy

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November 11, 2:00 PM

Two Cats on a Date

Starring Griffin Kelly

Tragically weird. Unnecessarily sexual. Two Cats on a Date is a mixed-media solo show in which one woman plays two cats whose romantic dinner kaleidoscopes into a world of intergenerational regret. With a deceptively simple set, Griffin creates an immersive feline universe that she guides the audience through—at times by force. It’s a nonstop, deranged adventure with a surprising amount of heart, exploring family trauma, PTSD, and how we come to hurt the ones we love. Two Cats on a Date made its international debut at the Edinburgh Fringe this past August, and was written and produced by Griffin Kelly and Shozo Okada. Kelly (who stars) is an Ashland, Oregon-born actress, writer, and comedian known for playing Lynn Conway in HBO’s Book of Queer. Okada (who directs), is an award winning filmmaker and editor based in Los Angeles.

Creator/Star/Co-Writer: Griffin Kelly

Director/Producer/Co-Writer: Andrew Okada

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Comedy, Multi-Media, Experimental, Dramedy

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November 11, 7:00 PM

Katie’s Tales

Starring Agnieszka Kazimierska

Katie’s Tales is the story of a woman and her beloved. It’s the story of a garden, with an orchard of cherry trees, silent witnesses of her life and of History. Katie’s life unfolds during savage times. Her beloved left after the last catastrophe, with a promise to come back.

Together with a couple of foreign servants, Katie lives protected in her garden. Every day she receives visitors, every moment could bring the return of the one who left, and Katy keeps herself ready. In the shade of the cherry orchard brimming with the memories and unfulfilled desires of many generations, she weaves a history of her own desire.

Katie’s Tales interlaces song, poetry, evocative physicality, and striking stage imagery, to create the dream traces of one woman’s encounter with love, war, ancestral memory, and a future still-to-come.

“Fascinating dialogue with her Foremothers” (Prof. D.Kosi?ski, Jagiellonian University, Poland)

“…One woman alone who masters the sense of “History” in relation to her personal history, makes it filled with things unspoken, with songs, and with an almost “clandestine” embodied physicality, inviting the public to fall in love, as she does, with her lover.” (Cristina T. Chiochia, Ticinolive.ch)

Producers: Workcenter of Jerzy Grotowski and Thomas Richards/Foundazion Teatro Della Toscana

Running Time: 55 minutes

Genre: Theatre, Poetry, Magical Realism, Vocal, Traditional Polish Songs, Poetic Narration, Dream-Like, Movement

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November 11, 8:30 PM

Mister Halston

Starring Ken Barnett

It is early spring, 1987, New York. Late afternoon, spilling into dusk. We are in the living room of the East 63rd Street apartment of famed American fashion designer, Halston. The journalist has arrived.

Written by Raffael Pacitti, directed by Kimberly Senior (Broadway’s Disgraced, MTC’s Bella Bella and The Niceties), and starring Ken Barnett (Broadway’s Fun Home, Wonderful Town, The Green Bird), this one-person play is a fictionalized version of the interview that led to a seminal New York Times article about the legendary designer.

Throughout the interview, a young, unseen, yet ever-present journalist learns about varied aspects of Halston’s life and career. We meet the people Halston knew and loved, as well as the cultural figures who influenced him. We hear about the visionary work that not only gripped the fashion world for decades, but also helped shape the evolution of identity, gender politics, sexuality and style—in America and around the world.

Performer: Ken Barnett

Playwright: Raffael Pacitti

Running Time: 90 minutes

Genre: Biography, Drama

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November 12, 2:00 PM

Lily The Tiger

Starring Dana McCoy

Multiple award-winning and Billboard chart-topping Singer/Songwriter Dana McCoy’s fabulous new rock musical tragicomedy Lily the Tiger features a range of original songs—from poignant to humorous—and a dramatic story line (completely fictional, she assures us). Dana’s endearing character Lily brims with unwitting grit as she navigates a parade of catastrophes. She searches under every rock for her inner tigress, which leads her to an improbable final straw!

Hit Broadway writer, performer, Gretchen Cryer (I’m Getting My Act Together and Taking It On The Road) helped shape the script for Lily The Tiger, and the show’s enjoyed great dramatic coaching and direction from Marcia Haufrecht (Actor’s Studio, Dog Day Afternoon, Armageddon Time w/ Sir Anthony Hopkins) .

Of course, any rock musical better have great rock musicians, so McCoy called on Alec Morton (Raging Slab and Monster Magnet) and Florence Marcisak (Florence of God) to back her up live while they’re recording their mega hit album with a full rockstar band.

So join us, but look out! This Tiger’s ready to POUNCE!

Writer/Performer: Dana McCoy

Running Time: 75 minutes

Genre: Musical, Comedy, Drama

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November 14, 7:00 PM

Call Me Queen

Starring Cyrene Renee

“Call Me Queen” the stage play is based on “Call Me Queen” the novel. Like the novel, it highlights each short story focusing on the main characters from childhood to womanhood. The play allows each young lady to come to life, engage with audiences and share their personal experiences in hope through their adversities and victories.

“Call Me Queen” is viewed from the perspective of her, the character. Not the viable influence of those who shaped the relationship from parents, friends, family, or loves. It is her thoughts and heart exposed to the masses in her own words. That is what makes this story different. That is what makes this story personal.

From Crystal, the youngest of the group, to Constance, the elder, it paints the path of growth and evolution. Through their unique circumstances, the young women’s journey is paved with secrets and admiration in love to continue. Strength, tenacity and resilience is the foundation necessary to gain insight for their wisdom. The relatable stories form a bond between the written word, the spoken character brought to life and the viewing audience.

Performer, Writer and Producer: Cyrene Renee

Running Time: 45 minutes

Genre: Drama, Storytelling

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November 15, 7:00 PM

Macbeth (Solo)

Starring Paul Goodwin

In December 2021, I was in Moscow preparing Russian students for a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. I was to return in February 2022 for rehearsals, having signed an agreement for a long term collaboration on Shakespeare with the Boris Shchukin Theatre School.

I had visited Moscow more than 20 times over the previous decade. It was familiar to me as a modern European city where I had friends and a rich creative collaboration. Over the years I had been there on Victory Day as well the day of a presidential inauguration. I had never felt unsafe.

And then in February 2022, the Russian state launched an unprovoked attack on Ukraine, and the world changed.

For the first couple of weeks I was simply hoping for it to be over so that I could continue with my career, but it soon became clear that wasn’t going to happen. I was left feeling hurt, angry, confused, betrayed, grieving for my loss – while at the same time recognising that my experiences were lite when compared with what was happening to the Ukrainian people and the Ukrainian nation.

It is in this context that I started to work on Macbeth.

Composer: Dmitriy Saratsky

Movement Specialist: Cheska Bridge

Running Time: 50 minutes

Genre: Drama, Tragedy, Classic

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November 16, 7:00 PM

Hot Boys

Starring Kali Tripodis

In simplest terms, Hot Boys is a one-woman comedy musical crush-induced identity crisis heartbreak explosion.

Kali Tripodis is comedian and musician with a penchant for chaos. As a movie-loving 90s kid, true love was always drilled into Kali’s head as the absolute pinnacle of success. Because of this, she centered herself around the male gaze and subconsciously molded her personality for their pleasure. The moment she laid eyes on her first crush, her life forever shifted onto a path that would ultimately lead her to violently throwing up in a Red Lobster. Hot Boys is a comedic and musical exploration of this.

Hot Boys is a multimedia experience with original songs, tragic stories, and personal triumph. It is a show for those of us who have lost touch with ourselves to please others. It is a show for those of us who have sacrificed too much for a fantasy that was never real. It is a show for those of us who have had to rediscover ourselves like an old, estranged friend.

Never lose yourself for love. But if you do, make sure it’s not to a convicted coke dealer with a Justin Timberlake tattoo.

Writer and Performer: Kali Tripodis

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Comedy, Storytelling, Music, Multi-media

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November 17, 7:00 PM

Trust me, I’m from Essex

Starring Lindsay Lucas-Bartlett

In “Trust me, I’m from Essex”, Lindsay Lucas-Bartlett will take you on a journey through life growing up in notorious Essex, England. From going to an all girls Catholic school, rejecting the “typical blonde” Essex girl stereotype, wreckage at home, and finally realizing her dream of living in Los Angeles and creating a new home of her own.

Enjoy this fun filled journey with laughter, singing, and down right drama.

Producer/Writer/Performer: Lindsay Lucas-Bartlett

Director/Writer: Lindsay Perry

Musical Director: Aaron Wilson

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Storytelling, Musical

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November 18, 2:00 PM

PLAY

Starring El Amari

Play, a funny, little man, Is swallowed by his video game console. He becomes, despite himself, the hero of A new video game! Play, thanks to his imagination, brings us to see the world through his eyes while opening the world to Playland. Throughout this “Role Playing Game” Play lives a lot of extraordinary adventures: he is chased by a zombie, rides on A dizzy roller coaster, passes through some parallel universe, go to space, falls in love with a princess, and fights a dragon… PLAY is a wonderful and poetic family show!!!

Actor/Author: El Amari

Running Time: 60 minutes

Genre: Clown

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November 18, 7:00 PM

WHISTLE – My Mother was Mengele’s Secretary

Starring Hadar Galron

WHISTLE – My Mother was Mengele’s Secretary.

LONDON* PRAGUE *BUDAPEST *TEL-AVIV *TEXAS *MIAMI *CROATIA *ALBANIA *SLOVAKIA

WHISTLE has been translated to nine languages, and won several International prizes.

WHISTLE is an autobiographical play, that explores the depths of human experience… swaying from fear to hope.

At 45, Tammy, only child to two Auschwitz survivors, discovers that she has never really lived or been loved. Although she was born after the war, her parents’ past haunted her childhood and stole her natural right to happiness. It’s when a charming stranger suddenly enters her life, opening locked doors to her soul, that Tammy realizes this is her last chance… But, is she capable of loving and being loved as she dreams, or will the black hole inside her swallow anyone who dares to get close?

WHISTLE is a monodrama that gives voice to the pain of the second generation of survivors, and exposes the invisible wounds of the Holocaust.

“As a child, I was never hugged, I think my parents didn’t even see me. I wrote this story to stop being an invisible child” (Yakov Buchan, author)

Story: Yakov Buchan

Adaption to Stage: Hadar Galron

Actress: Hadar Galron

Director: Hana Vazana Grunwald

Running Time: 65 minutes

Genre: Drama, Performance Art

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November 19, 7:00 PM

United Solo Closing Gala

Starring Wendy-Lane Bailey

United Solo celebrates the end of our 15th festival with a two act show. The first act features a performance directed by festival Founder/Artistic Director, Omar Sangare & starring Festival Assistant Artistic Director Wendy-Lane Bailey. It is a tribute to the skill, dedication and courage of our amazing artists. Act II is our awards ceremony, where awards for outstanding shows are given.

Running Time: 90 minutes

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Date: September 25th through November 19th, 2023

Location: Theatre Row - 410 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036

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