THE ART OF BURNING
Playwright: Kate Snodgrass
Director: Melia Bensussen
Location: Virginia Wimberly Theatre, LORT B; Co-Production, LORT B
The Huntington Dates:
Upcoming Workshop Dates: July 7-9, 2022
First Rehearsal: Tuesday, December 13, 2022
Tech Begins: Saturday, January 7, 2023
First Preview: Friday, January 13, 2023
Opening: Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Closing: Sunday, February 12, 2023
Hartford Stage Dates:
First rehearsal: Wednesday, Feb 15, 2023
First tech: Friday, Feb 24, 2023
First preview: Thursday, March 2, 2023
Opening: Friday, March 10, 2023
Closing: Sunday, March 26, 2023
Actors need to be available for both runs.
PATRICIA – Woman, mid-40s-early 50s, an artist and Beth’s mother; Jason’s soon-to-be ex-wife. A brilliant painter, she experiences the world through a vivid emotional life. A woman with a great sense of humor, she is currently very concerned about how she’s raised her daughter and looking for how to ameliorate the possible damage caused by her and Jason.
JASON – Man, late 40s-early 50s, a financial planner and Beth’s father; Patricia’s soon-to-be ex-husband and lover to Katya. Obsessed with his reputation and how he is seen by the world, wants to be the Picture-Perfect father. Is looking for a new start with a new partner as his marriage to Patricia has ceased to feel alive to him. Judgmental of Patricia, he is blinded by his own biases, and is fiercely protective of Beth.
MARK – Man, late 40s-early 50s, an attorney, father, husband to Charlene. His own marriage to Charlene has its challenges, and he is determined that no one knows the truth of his family’s life. Wants, as Jason does, to appear perfect. A gifted mediator, he is in over his head with Patricia and Jason.
KATYA – Woman, mid-30s, an attorney in Family Law, lover to Jason. Newly made partner at her firm, she is excited about her professional opportunities, and is idealistic about the change she can make in the world. Although she loves Jason, and wants to connect with Beth, she is struggling to balance her work and personal desires.
CHARLENE – Woman, 40s, a housewife and mother; married to Mark. Patricia’s close friend. Due to her own struggles in her marriages, she identifies with both Jason and Patricia. Struggling to regain her footing in her own marriage, she has a sophisticated view of what family life and long-term commitment can entail. Smart, self-aware, and has a good sense of humor.
BETH/SHELLEY – Beth, woman, 15. Patricia and Jason’s daughter. Fiercely independent with a rebellious spirit. Wants to be her own person, trying to navigate her evolving relationship with her parents. Shelley, woman, 20s, an experienced waitress. Quick-witted, has waited tables long enough to know how to deal with all sorts of BS from men.