A Vision for Artistic Growth

As Tarell Alvin McCraney completes his first season as the artistic director of Geffen Playhouse, he has expanded the theater’s offerings considerably. His focus has been not only on reviving classic works but also on nurturing new voices and innovative productions. McCraney aims to position the Geffen as a dynamic laboratory for artistic exploration.

Commitment to Development

In addition to notable revivals such as “The Brothers Size” and “Waiting for Godot,” McCraney has been conducting workshops for almost all productions scheduled for the 2025-26 season. This initiative is designed to allow artists more time to develop their work and foster creative collaborations before the final production stages.

“To have more time with the plays, and the writers and directors, beforehand … is crucial,” McCraney noted, highlighting a shift away from the fast-paced industry norm, which often prioritizes production over development.

Highlighting World Premieres

The upcoming season will kick off with the world premiere of “Am I Roxie?” by Roxana Ortega, running from September 3 to October 5, 2025. This one-woman show, directed by Bernardo Cubría, addresses themes of familial chaos and resilience through Ortega’s versatile performance.

Following this, Rudi Goblen’s “Littleboy/Littleman” will make its debut from October 1 to November 2, 2025. This production explores two brothers with divergent views on the American Dream, blending poetry and music to examine their relationship.

Continued Exploration of New Works

Looking forward, Douglas Lyons’ “Table 17” will receive its West Coast premiere from November 5 to December 7, 2025. Directed by Zhailon Levingston, this romantic comedy features a reunion between a couple who must navigate their complicated past.

The new year will see the unveiling of Beth Hyland’s “Sylvia Sylvia Sylvia” from February 4 to March 8, 2026, in which a novelist grapples with her identity amid her husband’s burgeoning fame, set against the backdrop of Sylvia Plath’s historical apartment.

Broadening Artistic Narratives

Sara Porkalob’s “Dragon Mama” will premiere on March 4, 2026, following her successful staging of “Dragon Lady.” This installment of her trilogy continues to deepen connections with audiences through a blend of personal storytelling and music, focusing on her mother and her sacrifices for family.

In addition, the Geffen will revive Athol Fugard’s poignant drama “Master Harold… and the Boys” from April 8 to May 10, 2026. The production, steeped in the context of apartheid in South Africa, explores complex racial relationships and societal issues.

A Concluding Celebration

To close the season, the West Coast premiere of Pearl Cleage’s “Angry, Raucous, and Shamelessly Gorgeous” will run from June 10 to July 12, 2026. Directed by LaTanya Richardson Jackson, this witty comedy delves into the tensions between established artists and a new generation of creatives.