In a recent interview, we delved into some thrilling developments within the theatrical world, highlighting innovative audio dramas and refreshed classics.
Sharon Duncan-Brewster steps into the spotlight as Pink, an insomniac private detective from Los Angeles who finds herself in Glasgow in “The Loved One.” This immersive audio drama has been brought to life by sound designer and composer Danny Krass, along with a talented team of six writers, including the late Oliver Emanuel. Most episodes can now be streamed online via the Tron, with the finale slated to premiere on October 7.
David Edgar, reflecting on today’s “paranoid, polarizing politics,” revisits the 1950s with his new production. It captures a key meeting between director Elia Kazan and playwright Arthur Miller as they maneuver through the challenges of McCarthyism. Directed by James Dacre, this compelling piece will run at the Orange Tree from October 22 to 25.
Sam Shepard’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Buried Child,” inspired by a chilling newspaper article about the accidental exhumation of a child’s body, continues to resonate with audiences. Ed Harris, who headlined a 2016 revival, praised Shepard’s profound grasp of the human psyche. This acclaimed production is now available on BroadwayHD.
In a fresh approach, theaters are enhancing their stage presentations by producing sophisticated films. A notable example is the upcoming “Romeo and Juliet,” a collaboration among the Belgrade Theatre, Bristol Old Vic, and Hackney Empire. Corey Campbell has crafted a short film shot on the grounds of Coventry Cathedral, blending the classic tale with contemporary rap.
The legendary James Earl Jones, who passed away last month at the age of 93, made a lasting impact in the audiobook realm, including his iconic rendition of the King James Version of the Bible. After originally portraying Hoke, the chauffeur, alongside Angela Lansbury in “Driving Miss Daisy,” the two reunited for an Audible version that has enchanted many listeners.
In an intriguing twist on modern celebrity culture, Natalie Ibu’s production “Underdog: The Other Other Brontë” poses the question: Are the Kardashians the Brontë sisters of today? This co-production from the National Theatre and Northern Stage navigates the complexities of sibling dynamics and is currently available through NT at Home.
Fans of “Sunset Boulevard” can anticipate an original cast recording set to be released on October 25, allowing audiences to engage with Jamie Lloyd’s modern revival of the classic Tinseltown musical, featuring Nicole Scherzinger’s Olivier Award-winning performance as Norma Desmond.
Tiajna Amayo captivates in “Cheeky Little Brown,” a one-woman monologue that explores the tension-filled reunion of old friends at a 25th birthday celebration. Directed by Chinonyerem Odimba and penned by Nkenna Akunna, this performance can be accessed through tiata fahodzi and Bristol Old Vic until November 2.
Emma Rice’s playful yet haunting adaptation of the folktale “Blue Beard” is making a strong return following a successful tour earlier this year. This modern retelling is set to premiere on Marquee TV on October 1.
Lastly, October introduces two exciting projects from “London Tide.” Ben Power’s stage adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “Our Mutual Friend” will be featured on National Theatre at Home, alongside an album of 13 songs co-created by Power and PJ Harvey, recorded by the cast. Both will become available starting October 17.
