Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum takes comedy back to its roots, combining 2000-year-old comedies from Roman playwright Plautus, with the infectious energy of classic vaudeville. Pegasus Players continues its long tradition with this great American composer and has produced more Sondheim productions than any theatre in America. Productions include the North American premiere of Saturday Night, the regional premiere of The Frogs, and Sunday in the Park with George, a Jeff citation winner for “outstanding production.”
Joan MacLeod’s The SHAPE OF A GIRL is one-woman commentary on the turbulent teen years inspired by the 1997 tragic beating of Victoria teenager Reena Virk. The sole character is fifteen-year-old Braidie, who becomes fascinated by local news of teen girls accused of a shocking act of violence. She wonders if the young offenders across the water in Victoria are different from her and her friends. Haunted by memories beginning in childhood and an uncomfortable present she can no longer ignore, Braidie must confront the truth. Can she find the courage to break the conspiracy of silence? Shape is not only geared to teens but is a compelling look at the pressures and experiences of growing up and surviving adolescence that also appeals to tweens and adults.
Continental Divide is a timely, 2-play cycle set against the background of a bitterly fought gubernatorial election. Mothers Against follows the Republican candidate’s campaign, while Daughters of the Revolution follows the Democratic candidate’s campaign. The two plays, comprising Continental Divide, objectively explore the positioning and perceptions of party affiliation in American politics. The cycle’s full impact is realized by experiencing both productions, but each play is a strong stand-alone piece and will be performed on alternating dates. For anyone transfixed by current party politics and our country’s historic presidential face-off, Continental Divide is a must!
Featuring the plays “Dine N’Hash,” “Where We Have Been,” and “The Bench.” An annual Chicago tradition and the oldest of its kind in the country, The Chicago Young Playwrights Festival receives 600+ submitted plays, each year, by teenagers throughout the city. Three to four winning teen playwrights are selected and their works are performed at Pegasus. YPF showcases the next generation of playwrights, allowing audiences a glimpse into the minds of today’s youth.