Now in its 18th year, ReACT: New Plays in Progress showcases new works by Canadian playwrights, read aloud by a company of actors. After each reading, audience members are invited to take part in a discussion with Ashlie Corcoran (Artistic Director), Stephen Drover (Associate Artistic Director), and the artists. The ReACT reading series demonstrates the Arts Club’s commitment to fostering new works, making the creative process more accessible, and providing a public forum for feedback, as some of Canada’s most talented actors, directors, dramaturgs, and playwrights bring new scripts to life.
Associate Artistic Director Stephen Drover said, “ReACT is an exciting opportunity to get a sneak peek at scripts we’ve been working on via our Silver Commissions Project, plus other scripts we think are pretty fantastic. This year we feature three remarkable scripts from some inspiring Vancouver playwrights. Dave Deveau’s new play In My Country, a black comedy, is set in a fast-food restaurant and explores the lives of newcomers to Canada as they negotiate their differences and make hamburgers. Siminovitch Prize winner Marcus Youssef brings us a holiday play about family, tradition, and what it means to find your own path during the festive yet complicated season with It’s a Wonderful-ish Xmas Holiday Miracle. Finally, Governor General’s Award nominee Anosh Irani is back with a one-person show called Buffoon, about a boy raised in a circus and trying to find love.”
SCHEDULE OF FREE READINGS AT THE ARTS CLUB’S GOLDCORP STAGE AT THE BMO THEATRE CENTRE
Thursday, October 18, 7:30 PM
In My Country, by Dave Deveau
A contemporary black comedy set in a fast-food restaurant that explores the lives of immigrants as they acclimatize to the Canadian mosaic.
Friday, October 19, 7:30 PM
It’s a Wonderful-ish Xmas Holiday Miracle, by Marcus Youssef
Chloe and Simon’s mom and dad have separated. Dad has a new partner and mom is rediscovering her Jewish roots. And then their dead grandma shows up. It’s a Wonderful Life meets Modern Family in this contemporary fable about a blended family just trying to make things work during a complicated season.
Saturday, October 20, 7:30 PM
Buffoon, by Anosh Irani
Felix was born into the circus. Both his parents are trapeze artists, but Felix is a clown. How did he turn into such a buffoon? Find out at Anosh Irani's new one-man show.
Admission is free; RSVP required. For more information, visit artsclub.com.