Stage Door News
Stage Door News
Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON (July 11, 2015) — Award-winning playwright Tony Kushner’s The Intelligent Homosexual’s Guide to Capitalism and Socialism with a Key to the Scriptures (iHO) begins previews today at the Shaw Festival’s Studio Theatre. Directed by Eda Holmes, Kushner’s portrait of an unusual Italian-American family reunion features an exploration of contemporary societal issues through his trademark mix of the humorous, the heartbreaking, the political and the personal.
When retired Brooklyn longshoreman, disillusioned lifelong communist, and family patriarch Gus Marcantonio (Jim Mezon) decides to end his life, an intervention is staged by his sister (Fiona Reid), his three children M.T., Vic and Pill (Kelli Fox, Gray Powell and Steven Sutcliffe) and their various spouses and exes. The family gathering leads to a rollercoaster ride of fiercely passionate debate and life-changing revelations. The title – inspired by Bernard Shaw’s The Intelligent Woman’s Guide to Socialism and Capitalism and Mary Baker Eddy’s Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures – reflects the work of two powerful 19th century thinkers, as Gus, a powerful 20th century thinker on the verge of defeat, struggles to understand an impending uncertain future.
This Canadian premiere production features set and costume design by Peter Hartwell, with lighting design by Kevin Lamotte, original music by Paul Sportelli and fight direction by John Stead.
The Intelligent Homosexual’s Guide to Capitalism and Socialism with a Key to the Scriptures is on stage at the Studio Theatre (10 Queen’s Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake) from July 11 to October 10 (Opening July 26). The Shaw Festival’s production is the play’s Canadian premiere. The Intelligent Homosexual’s Guide to Capitalism and Socialism with a Key to the Scriptures is sponsored by Paradigm Capital Inc.
The Shaw Festival’s 2015 season began April 8, runs until November 1 and features 10 productions presented on the Festival’s four Niagara-on-the-Lake stages. For more information on the 2015 season, performance schedule or tickets, visit www.shawfest.com or call 1-800-511-SHAW.
Illustration: ©2015 Emily Cooper.
2015-07-11
Niagara-on-the-Lake: Tony Kushner's "The Intelligent Homosexual's Guide ..." begins previews