“Every once in a while, something that seems too good to be true actually IS true. Working with the Manhattan Repertory Theatre was effortless and uncomplicated. Their constant support from the moment our play was chosen was amazing - we always felt like we were their highest priority- which is incredible given the large amount of artists they're constantly working with. In addition to the great team of people at MRT, we were given a lovely, intimate, functional space in the heart of the theater district to showcase our work. The Manhattan Repertory Theatre is a diamond in the rough - a group of professional artists truly supporting other artists. Being a part of their play festival has been a dream and a blessing.”
- Michael DiFrancisco, Producer/Director - EDGAR’S SMILE
“Although I have produced and directed films, The Hail Mary Pass was my first play and I had a lot of questions, especially since I live out of state. Ken Wolf at Manhattan Repertory Theatre patiently answered every one and made the process as easy as possible for me and my team. With so many productions moving in and out of the theater during a festival, it would be understandable if the place got a little messy and the scheduling got a little chaotic--but that never happened. MRT is run incredibly well and all of the participants I encountered were considerate of each other and of the theater. The audience loved the intimate atmosphere and stadium seating, and I hope to return someday with a new play.”
Patrice Hamilton - Playwright/Producer - THE HAIL MARY PASS
"My experience at Manhattan Repertory Theatre has been extraordinary. Because of Ken Wolf’s unwavering support, I was able to transform my solo show into a richly layered, multi-character ensemble piece. Ken fearlessly encourages each playwright to fully engage in their work – from producing to writing to directing to performing, but he is also there every step of the way, tirelessly responding to each question, giving vital advice. Although this was an incredibly challenging undertaking, I’d remind myself of Ken’s words to me: “think of each hardship as a gift.” His open-minded approach taught me to value each challenge as an integral part of the artistic process, as part and parcel of the organic evolution of what it means to truly develop a play. I am deeply grateful to both Ken Wolf and Jennifer Pierro for their unique vision and devotion to emerging playwrights."
Anna Fishbeyn - Actor/Playwright/Producer - SEX IN MOMMYVILLE
“Manhattan Rep was the first professional venue that has ever mounted one of my plays, and I cannot overstate how wonderful and easy the process of putting on a show with them has been. I recommend them to any and every artist looking to make it happen in the theater.”
Anthony Smith - Producer/Playwright/Actor - THE BUG COLLECTOR
"We had a wonderful production - all thanks to you. You made what could have been a stressful production into a professional and polished showcase in a NewYork location that simply cannot be beat. Most festivals are zoos, but this one was fun and easy because of your professional and calm guidance. From the very beginning you helped accommodate our schedules (I had out of town relatives who were able to see the Sunday performance) and we were able to have three industry professionals see our play. Everything was very well organized and your theatre is a wonderful space to work in. This production was a great experience. It helped me improve the work and identify certain production issues to further improve upon next time. I am so very proud to be able to boast that American Lullaby made its world premiere in Manhattan Repertory Theatre's Winterfest 2011."
Cassandra Lewis - Playwright/Producer - AMERICAN LULLABY
FOR MORE INFO AND LISTING OF PLAYS...
THIS WEEK:
LACEY’S LAST CHANCE
by Gabriel Davis
Lacey yearns for lasting love but has the unfortunate habit of killing her partners when the going gets tough. Hoping to attain a more peaceful life, Lacey takes up origami and begins dating Trent who, despite learning of her crimes, adores her and believes she can change. But will Trent's faith in Lacey be enough to keep their love (and him) alive?
BERRIES OF WRATH
by Mike Leon
BERRIES OF WRATH is about Hank and Gerald, two downtroddenbureaucrats facing an impossible workload, a hostileoffice and troubles at home. This surreal comedy explores what happens when two very different people find themselves backed up against the same wall.
EAR BUDS
by Michael Bettencourt
In EAR BUDS, a young person cannot detach himself from his headphones and player because when we love our devices, they have no choice but to love us back.
NECTAR
by Joseph W. Pukatsch
It's Joshua's first visit to a unique support group for individuals with bizarre sexual fetishes. As he shares his unusual turn-ons in sensual detail, he finds acceptance and a little something extra.
The Yellow Umbrella
by Daniel O'Mara
A love story with an unlikely twist, the living, the dead, and even God and Jesus all congregate at a young woman’s funeral. The Yellow umbrella examines true love in life and beyond. Life’s funny… But death is hilarious.
ON
by David Vazdauskas
The wife of a philandering photographer embarks on a brilliant scheme to turn the tables on both her husband and the other women in his life.
ALLIE OOPS LAST FANTASTIC DAY
by Kirt Shineman
While a mother waits for the doctor to call she prepares for her son’s first day of his last year of school. As is her tradition, she attends his school as the clown, Allie Oop. Will her diagnoses stop her? Will Allie Oop help her get through this fantastic day?
YESTERDAY IRAN/TODAY IRAQ
by L.S. Goldberg
Yesterday Iran/Today Iraq chronicles a young soldier who on the eve of deploying to Iraq discovers his grandfather’s World War II letters from the Persian Gulf. Arrogant, and dismissive of his grandfather’s service, the two “war” over war.
JIMMY HOTT’S
by Dave Stishan
JIMMY HOTT’S is about two strangers who had a crazy night followed by a chaotic morning full of insults and humiliations and simply asks can “that” person be someone you don’t remember meeting?
JUDITH
by Leonard Goodisman
Judith confronts with guile the would be god threatening to kill her people and he loses his head.
AFFECTATIONS
by Craig M. Tiede
Following his roommate's suicide attempt, a young actor contacts his roommate's estranged parents for support and an explanation.
“On behalf of 7th Street Productions, I would like to thank Ken, Jennifer and the rest of the team for giving us the golden opportunity to present our work on their great stage. It was an honor to be selected and I know we are all enriched both on a professional and personal level by the unique experience.
On a personal note, just a shout out to my fellow playwrights. I urge you to sit down and get busy! When you're done, submit your work to the Manhattan Repertory Theatre. Keep your fingers and toes crossed that you are selected because there is no better platform for an emerging new voice. The intimacy this theatre offers is second to none and a venue such as the Manhattan Rep is as vital to our craft as setting pen to paper. In addition, you will have the time of your life in a nurturing, cocoon-like atmosphere that this theatre so effortlessly provides. If your work is accepted, you would be wise to stay close, listen and learn with the hopes some of this theatre team's endless energy and limitless expertise will rub off on you.
If there is truly a "rock-n-roll heaven" for musicians, than it just seems logical that the Manhattan Repertory Theatre is a playwright's dream.”
Frank Tumminia Playwright/Producer - FINALITY & HATE STREET -
"I've worked in many different theaters all over New York, and I can honestly say that I've never worked with such outstanding professionals as Manhattan Rep. Many theaters only preach their philosophy, but Manhattan Rep truly lives it, by taking a chance on the writer and the work, and fostering creativity and collaboration.
I'm so grateful the good people at Manhattan Rep exist, and that I've had the honor of being a part of their mission."
- Liza Lentini, Playwright -
“In such a barren economy where there is shameful lack of venues for artists, MRT stands alone as a safe, and creative haven in which plays, that may have never seen the light of day of a production, can be produced and seen by NYC theater audiences."
-Yolanda Rodriguez, Playwright/Director -
Seeing my first play produced at The Manhattan Repertory Theatre was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Thanks so much for staying on top of any question, concern, or request I could come up with. From the moment I walked into the space at the theatre viewing, I felt a palpable creative energy, and it was a joy to watch my play performed in that environment (especially with 2 sold-out performances!)
On behalf of myself and my team, thanks so much for the opportunity! I certainly hope to work with Manhattan Rep again in the future.
- Merridith Allen, Playwright -
Class Act.
Highly Professional.
Fun, caring team.
I just want to say, thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to appear at your theatre. I can’t believe how smoothly things ran. I'm truly impressed. It's nice working with professionals who know what they're doing, who care, and are passionate about their craft. Can’t wait to do it again!
Christine Stevens DeLorenzo - Playwright/Producer - Whipped
Isn’t it about time you finally put up that play?
Manhattan Repertory Theatre produces original new plays with little or no cost to the participants.
MRT runs seasonal play festivals, produces Manhattan Repertory Theatre company plays, and produces returning festival artists.
Created in 2005
by Ken Wolf, Artistic Director and Jennifer Pierro, Director of Productions, Manhattan Repertory Theatre has produced over 700 plays, and over 6000 theatre artists have participated.
We are located at 303 W. 42nd St. (at 8th Ave.) NYC
To contact Manhattan Rep:
Email: manhattanrep@yahoo.com
MANHATTAN REP’s BLOG:
http://manhattanrep.tumblr.com/
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @manhattanrep
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