Dear theatre friends,
Wonderful news– for the U.K., at least. The British government has pledged about $2 billion for the Arts. Read about the entire investment here. If you know how to pressure our government to follow suit ,in these perilous times— please get in touch, and I’ll share that information.
Several have asked why I hadn’t mention “Hamilton” coming to the screen. It’s not because of the changed political landscape since it’s inception, or historical inaccuracy, as stated in this Vox article. Simply, I’m not a musical lover, nor fond of hip hop— I didn’t enjoy the show myself. With that caveat, please note that you can view “Hamilton” on Disney+ for the foreseeable future.
One of the most creative returning companies in Edinburgh is Aurora Nova, brainchild of Wolfgang Hoffman, its Artistic Director. He always brings a program of exciting circus and dance as well as theatre. A number of years ago, Wolfgang pressured me to see “Leo,” which then went on to win my Award! This year, for obvious reasons, we won’t be seeing them at the festival, but you can see a selection of their cutting edge work here. Please use the password : untilwemeetagain and enjoy these international pieces.
The National Theatre of Scotland has found a way of entertaining its audience through “Scenes for Survival.” There are dozens to view– the latest is Brian Cox playing Ian Rankin’s iconic detective, John Rebus.
If you belong to T.D.F. you can see several interesting plays for a mere $11, or so. Adam Rapp’s “Nocturne” is specially made for online broadcast, but there are others which are archived videos of prior productions. I browsed quickly and found Marietta Theatre In the Square’s “Native Son,” adapted from Richard Wright’s novel, as well as others. And, when theaters do open– this is a great resource for inexpensive seats.
On July 20th, you’ll be able to see eight ten-minute plays from some of our best writers at Red Bull’s Short Play Festival. Jeremy O. Harris and Theresa Rebeck are among the best known, but all should be terrific. On this 10th anniversary, Noel Coward’s “Private Lives” is the theme– what fun!
The New Group will be offering readings of “The True” by Sharr White and “The Spoils” by Jesse Eisenberg,” with the original casts of these prior productions, on two succeeding Thursdays– the 16th and 23rd of July.
Finally, from my favorite London theatre-above-a-pub, Finborough, comes “Continuity” by Gerry Moynihan. This is a video of the 2017 world premiere, called “utterly gripping” in this Guardian review. And at London Pub Theatre, you’ll find another Finborough play, “Blueprint Medea,” by Julia Pascal and more to accompany a pint, or two!
More to come…
That’s all for now– as I receive news I’ll pass it along. But don’t completely fill your calendars yet– more shows are continuing to find their way to our screens.
Aren’t we fortunate to be living during this plague and not Sophocles’? Or, are you overwhelmed by choice?
Again, if you discover other theatre-related news– please get in touch: Carol@BestofEdinburgh.org.
And, need I reiterate? I’d like to continue to write because so many have expressed their enjoyment of reading– but I must have content!
Please send other theatre related information, or do try to recall a story you’d like me to post.
Carol Tambor publishes a monthly newsletter, which announces worthy shows coming to New York, along with occasional information about London theatre and, of course, the Edinburgh Fringe.