NORTH CENTER — American Theater Company has announced its 2015-16 "legacy season" — four shows championed by the company's late artistic director PJ Paparelli.
"We celebrate PJ's legacy by partnering with New York organizations to tell two important American stories, by introducing a new work by one of his closest collaborators Dan LeFranc, and by cracking open a great American musical, 'The Wiz,' with one of Chicago's powerhouses of musical theater, Lili-Anne Brown," interim artistic director Bonnie Metzgar said in a statement.
The Shows:
"Fulfillment," by Thomas Bradshaw, a co-world premiere with an off-Broadway company (to be announced). About a man who confronts his personal demons after encountering racial discrimination. November-December.
"Bruise Easy," by Dan LeFranc, world premiere. Two estranged siblings meet in the driveway of their childhood home and begin the conversation of a lifetime. January-February.
"Kill Floor," by Abe Koogler, regional premiere following New York world premiere. After a long incarceration, a mother returns to her hometown to restart her life and faces the challenges of re-entry as she reunites with her teenage son. March-May.
"The Wiz," co-production with Bailiwick Chicago, directed by Bailiwick's artistic director Lili-Anne Brown. The Tony Award-winning musical re-imagines "The Wizard of Oz" with an African-American cast. May-July 2016.
Prior to "Fulfillment," American Theater, 1909 W. Byron St., will host a legacy celebration honoring Paparelli. Details are forthcoming.
Early bird subscriptions, ranging from $90-$120, are sold before July 31.
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