INDIANAPOLIS — Three highly regarded American plays never seen by Indianapolis audiences will make their way to Mass Ave. theaters in 2020, thanks to a new local company. American Lives Theatre (ALT) is devoted to producing provocative, relevant plays that question what it means to live in America today.
Gloria by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, begins performances Jan. 10, 2020 on the Basile Stage at Indy Fringe Theatre. Hailed by the New York Times as “a whip smart satire of fear and loathing,” the play was well received off-Broadway and at the Goodman Theatre in Chicago. It was shortlisted for the Pulitzer Prize in 2016. The play, which exposes the hilarious, brutal ambition among eager assistants in publishing, will feature an all-local cast of six actors, each one known to Indy theater audiences for previous work on other stages around town.
The second play of the season is Boy Gets Girl by Rebecca Gilman. This thriller/drama opens March 13 on the Indy Eleven Stage at Indy Fringe Theatre. The story of a blind date that spirals rapidly into terror, will star Carrie Schlatter.
The final play of ALT’s first season will be Detroit by Lisa D’Amour. This gripping comedic drama reflects on American middle class ideals over the charcoal grills of two adjoining back yard neighbors. It will be staged on the District Theatre Mainstage opening May 8. Detroit enjoyed a successful run at the Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago and subsequently off-Broadway, eventually being named a Pulitzer finalist in 2011. It will also feature the work of local actors and designers.
Each of the three plays in this first season of American Lives Theatre will be directed by Founding Artistic Director Chris Saunders.
More information can be found at www.americanlivestheatre.org, as well as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
