2019 BREAKING GROUND FESTIVAL OF NEW WORK

THE KRITIK

Written by Brenda Withers
Directed by Moritz von Stuelpnagel
Public reading: Friday, April 12 at 8pm
Location: South End / Calderwood Pavilion at the BCA

In an imagined corner of 19th century Russia, a provincial theatre critic struggles to write his first honest review. A send-up and celebration of the theatre, the truth, and all things Chekhovian, The Kritik joyfully examines how candor, corruption, and community affect the creative process.

MR. PARENT

Written by Melinda Lopez and Maurice Emmanuel Parent
Conceived by Megan Sandberg-Zakian, Maurice Emmanuel Parent, and Melinda Lopez
Directed by Megan Sandberg-Zakian

Public Reading: Saturday, April 13 at 8pm
Location: South End / Calderwood Pavilion at the BCA

When an actor turns to teaching for a steady paycheck, he learns that it's less of a job and more of a constant, visceral reminder of one's own success and/or failure. Mr. Parent is a hilarious, joyful, and heartbreakingly honest peek into the kids, adults, and systems of the Boston Public Schools. Based on the real-life adventures of favorite Boston actor Maurice Parent, Mr. Parent asks, "What does it mean to show up for our kids — and ourselves?"

DEAL ME OUT

Written by MJ Halberstadt
Directed by Rebecca Bradshaw
Public reading: Sunday, April 14 at 7pm
Location: South End / Calderwood Pavilion at the BCA

Before beginning their longstanding weekly board game night, a group of social outcasts sets out to kick out the friend who has been grating on their nerves. A play about what happens when friendships are at odds with firmly held beliefs, Deal Me Out has the risky conversations people are afraid of hearing.