CIRCLE

FESTIVAL

RAW | BARE | UNFILTERED

In a city that thrives on theatrical innovation, the Circle Theater Festival boldly steps forward, offering an audacious alternative to Broadway's sheen. This festival, with its European fringe influence and Off-Broadway experimentation, presents hybrid theater at its most elemental—raw and rough.

The festival’s productions are a far cry from the predictable polish of mainstream theater. Instead, they offer unvarnished performances that are as gripping as they are honest. Here, theater is stripped to its core, allowing the raw talent and passion of the performers to shine through. It's a bold reminder that great theater doesn't require elaborate sets or costumes—just a powerful story and the courage to tell it.

LINEUP

10:30 am - 12:00 pm | Princess Hamlet A gender-bent reimagining of the prince(ss) of Denmark. Experience Shakespeare’s classic tragedy through a fresh lens, where the roles and perspectives are redefined, casting new light on timeless themes of ambition, revenge, and madness.

12:30 pm - 2:00 pm | Private Struggle, Public Stage
Three short plays exploring the hidden narratives behind public personas. Unveil the personal battles and intricate emotions that remain unseen in public life, highlighting the masks we wear and the stories we hide.

2:30 pm - 4:00 pm | PVT. Wars

A poignant and darkly humorous play set in a veterans' hospital, where three Vietnam War soldiers grapple with the aftermath of their experiences. Their conversations reveal deep scars and the camaraderie that helps them survive. Written by James McLure.

4:30 pm - 6:00 pm | Shakespeare Unraveled

Three inventive reinterpretations of Shakespeare’s classics. Discover new dimensions and unexpected turns as familiar stories are given fresh life and perspective.

6:30 pm - 8:00 pm | The Maids

A gripping drama about two sisters, Claire and Solange, who serve as maids to a wealthy woman. In their employer's absence, they enact disturbing role-playing games, blurring reality and fantasy as they plot her murder. Written by Jean Genet, this intense play explores themes of power, identity, and rebellion.

8:30 pm - 10:00 pm | Gidion’s Knot

A tense and emotional drama that unfolds during a parent-teacher conference. As a grieving mother and a conflicted teacher confront each other, painful truths about a young boy’s life and death come to light, leading to an unforgettable climax. Written by Johnna Adams.

PRESS

  • Circle Theater Festival is inviting you to see theater in a new light. Spanning six weekends from September through November 2024, Circle Festival is a bold reminder that great theater doesn't require elaborate sets or extravagant costumes; just a powerful story and the courage to tell it. Read more here.

  • Artistic adaptations and gripping dramas, dark comedies, and psychological thrillers showcase a versatile ensemble of theatrical talent, from emerging artists such as Scarlett Strasberg to seasoned professionals like lifetime members of The Actors Studio, Suzanne DiDonna and Kirsten Russell. Read more here.

  • RJ Theatre Company, in collaboration with The Actor Launchpad, have revealed the lineup for the much-anticipated 2024 Circle Theater Festival. Set to take place in New York City, this year's festival promises a dynamic blend of established stars and emerging talents, with productions that challenge the boundaries of traditional theater. Read more here.

  • Contemporary themes and uncensored voices, artistic adaptation and gripping dramas, dark comedies, and psychological thrillers invite you to experience the power of authentic storytelling. Read more here.

  • After opening weekend, Circle Theater Festival will be back at The Flea Theater in Tribeca for the second of six weekends. Catch one or more of their shows running from 10.30 am to 8.30 pm. Full article here.

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