Last month, when the Lucille Lortel Theatre announced the purchase of a new building in Chelsea, there was some surprise. What caught some off-guard is that the Lortel also announced new artistic leaders focusing on the development of new works.
Theater is often focused on the young. One would think this is only true on the stage actors and appearance receive the bulk of attention. But behind-the-scenes it is that way too. With a few exceptions for established writers like Tom Stoppard, emerging writers are given way more attention than older ones.
This past weekend, the Grinnell theatre, dance and performance studies (TDPS) department unveiled its interpretation of “Arbor Falls,” a poetic play written by Caridad Svich. The abstract work is a new part of Svich’s seven-play cycle entitled “American Psalm,” and through its immersive atmosphere and striking dialogue, it invites the audience to reflect on themes.
The Lucille Lortel Theatre has purchased a three-story carriage house in Chelsea which will help support emerging artists, the creation of new theatrical works, and bolster New York’s iconic downtown theatre scene.