Jeffrey Neuman
Playwright, Dramaturg,
& Literary Events Coordinator
2024 In Review
The Last Night of Red Barker is
“surprisingly poignant” & “unexpectedly touching”
The Denver Post
Audience are absolutely loving The Last Night of Red Barker, calling it a "lovely," "moving," and "heartbreaking" theatrical experience. Though not a review, Lisa Kennedy couldn't help but comment on the emotional aspects of the play's journey in her feature article in The Denver Post:
"The Last Night of Red Barker” is surprisingly poignant. As the audience accompanies Red through memories and into ghostly encounters, his dead-man-walking ruminations speak of melancholy and legacy." Kennedy goes on to write, "Did I mention that this work by the Catamounts and Neuman is, in addition to making an argument for the intimacy of a certain kind of low-tech immersive theater, unexpectedly touching?
It is. And I don’t mind telling you that watching [a young audience member's to] Red’s departure a teary one for a few of these new friends of Barker."
Read Lisa Kennedy's article in its entirety by clicking the image below!
"The Last Night of Red Barker” is surprisingly poignant. As the audience accompanies Red through memories and into ghostly encounters, his dead-man-walking ruminations speak of melancholy and legacy." Kennedy goes on to write, "Did I mention that this work by the Catamounts and Neuman is, in addition to making an argument for the intimacy of a certain kind of low-tech immersive theater, unexpectedly touching?
It is. And I don’t mind telling you that watching [a young audience member's to] Red’s departure a teary one for a few of these new friends of Barker."
Read Lisa Kennedy's article in its entirety by clicking the image below!
I’m thrilled beyond words to announce my next production, which marks my 3rd collaboration with The Catamounts, Colorado’s most creative, dynamic, and boundary-pushing theater company.
THE LAST NIGHT OF RED BARKER is based on the life of Lloyd Barker, second-born son of the notorious 1930's gang leader, Ma Barker. The production takes place on and around the property in Westminster, Colorado, where Lloyd -- known as "Red"-- met his tragic and untimely end. This is a different type of theatre experience, y'all, and sets the audience on a journey that asks if the ghosts from our past can ever be escaped, if redemption is ever within reach.
Tickets are VERY limited, so get them while you can through the link in the image below. Hope to see you at Lloyd's last call."
THE LAST NIGHT OF RED BARKER is based on the life of Lloyd Barker, second-born son of the notorious 1930's gang leader, Ma Barker. The production takes place on and around the property in Westminster, Colorado, where Lloyd -- known as "Red"-- met his tragic and untimely end. This is a different type of theatre experience, y'all, and sets the audience on a journey that asks if the ghosts from our past can ever be escaped, if redemption is ever within reach.
Tickets are VERY limited, so get them while you can through the link in the image below. Hope to see you at Lloyd's last call."
September 2024
Pen & Podium Returns for Its 21st Season
There are some authors who are not only beautiful storytellers, but also beautiful human beings. Amy Tan is one of those glorious people and it was pure joy (and pure luck) to have her kickoff our 21st season of Pen & Podium, seventeen years after her first appearance on our stage.
Amy carries a light and energy that are so inspiring; she’s uniquely sensitive, funny, and wise, and she commands a stage with warmth and generosity. Her message last night was particularly timely as she discussed The Backyard Bird Chronicles and how birding helped her to discover and embrace hope in a world that too often distracts us from the beauty that surrounds us. I don’t think I’ll ever forget her wondrous story of seeing and being seen by a bird for the very first time. Pure delight. Pure heaven. Man, I love my job!
Amy carries a light and energy that are so inspiring; she’s uniquely sensitive, funny, and wise, and she commands a stage with warmth and generosity. Her message last night was particularly timely as she discussed The Backyard Bird Chronicles and how birding helped her to discover and embrace hope in a world that too often distracts us from the beauty that surrounds us. I don’t think I’ll ever forget her wondrous story of seeing and being seen by a bird for the very first time. Pure delight. Pure heaven. Man, I love my job!
June 2024
24 Hour Plays at Curious Theatre Company
I’ve always been more of a “chip away at the marble” kinda writer, taking my sweet time cobbling a piece together. This month, though, I got to make Spin Art, writing a brand new play in just 8 hours! Did I mention I had to BEGIN writing it at 10pm and that it was to be fully produced the following evening?!?? Yup. You read that right. Why on earth would I do this?!!?? Well, wouldn’t you if it was a benefit for the nationally beloved Curious Theatre Company?
The 24 Hour Plays came to Denver and somehow 6 fresh plays that didn't exist the day before were midwived into the world. My contribution, Visiting Zeyde, was a love letter to my grandparents and it was a complete joy (though utterly exhausting) to write. Even more joyful was seeing the brilliant work of Anne Oberbroeckling, Billie McBride, Kim Egan, and Jim Hunt under the auspices of Kent Thompson's direction. It took my body 72 hours to recover from the all-nighter, but I wouldn't have missed this experience for the world.
The 24 Hour Plays came to Denver and somehow 6 fresh plays that didn't exist the day before were midwived into the world. My contribution, Visiting Zeyde, was a love letter to my grandparents and it was a complete joy (though utterly exhausting) to write. Even more joyful was seeing the brilliant work of Anne Oberbroeckling, Billie McBride, Kim Egan, and Jim Hunt under the auspices of Kent Thompson's direction. It took my body 72 hours to recover from the all-nighter, but I wouldn't have missed this experience for the world.
May 2024
From Flower Moon to the Gates of Hell
On April 29, I had the immense pleasure of hosting bestselling author David Grann to Denver for the final installment of Pen & Podium's 20th Anniversary season. David was an absolute joy to host and he held the audience rapt as he discussed two of his works -- The Wager and Killers of the Flower Moon -- to illustrate the joys/challenges of bringing true stories to near-fictional life.
From April 26-May 18, Benchmark Theatre (Denver) produced the workshop premiere of my most recent play, The Road to Lethe, a funhouse-mirror reflection of our own damaged world that re-imagines one of Greek mythology’s most infamous stories through the lens of Black Lives Matter. In the play, a Black handyman is hired by three elderly White women to assemble the contents of a large Amazon package mysteriously left on their doorstep, he finds himself drawn through the World of the Living to the Gates of Hell. Click the photo below to hear a lovely story from Colorado Public Radio's Eden Lane about the play and its path to production.
March 2024
Ta-Nehisi Coates & Michael Chabon
at Pen & Podium
On March 18, I had one of the most epic experiences I’ve ever undertaken — beautiful, powerful, thought-provoking, and more than a little anxiety-inducing — when I shared the stage with two of the most brilliant minds of our times, Ta-Nehisi Coates and Michael Chabon, for almost two full hours in front of an audience of almost 1000 people. During the conversation, the two authors generously shared their thoughts about writing, process, and an authorial responsibility in public discourse. It was truly one of the most unforgettable events we've ever hosted at Pen & Podium and an absolute career highlight for me.
February 2024
Kristin Hannah at Pen & Podium
It was pure joy hosting Kristin Hannah on Monday night, 2/12, for the very first Pen & Podium of 2024. Kristin was warm, kind, smart, and had one of those easily offered laughs that makes you feel like you’ve been friends for years. A natural storyteller and a fearless editor of her own work, I’ll not soon forget her advice that when it comes to writing, "You can fix a broken scene, but you can't fix a broken page.” I'm planning on remembering that advice any time/every time I find myself on the doorstep of writer's block.
January 2024
And The OSCA Goes To ...
So grateful to OnStage Colorado for recognizing Cherry Creek Theatre’s production of The Headliners with FIVE 2023 Awards for Theatrical Excellence, including honors for Original Play, Actor in a Play (Norrell Moore and Jeremy Rill), Director of a Play (Nick Sugar), and Costume Design (Linda Morken). This play and production continue to be such a source of happiness and pride for me.
2023 In Review
December 2023
True West Awards Honors Colorado Playwrights
On Day 17 of this year's True West Awards, veteran journalist John Moore writes, "Jake Brasch put the Colorado in the Colorado New Play Summit. But It was a banner, perhaps unprecedented year for local playwrights as a collective, too. Defying all economic likelihood coming out of the pandemic, Colorado theaters staged at least 17 full-length new plays written by local playwrights in 2023. The 23rd annual True West Awards recount 30 good stories from the year in Colorado theater in The Denver Gazette."
I was thrilled to be among the TWA-recognized playwrights for my two locally-produced plays this year, The Headliners (Cherry Creek Theatre) and Pride of the Farm (The Catamounts). This is my fourth True West Award citation and I cannot express how much it means to me to be honored for my contributions to the Colorado theater landscape.
McSweeney's Issue 72 Now Available for Purchase
I know I'm supposed to be a wordsmith or something like that, but words absolutely failed me this week when I saw my play, The Headliners, beautifully published by McSweeney's, a literary organization that has meant so much to me for so long. Issue 72 is NOW available for purchase on the McSweeney's website and I couldn't be happier with how it turned out, gorgeously packaged with photos from the play's world premiere. I do hope you'll consider buying a copy of the publication, and I urge you to share the play with any producers who are looking for a timely piece of theater that explores issues of gender, celebrity, and sexuality.
The Road to Lethe Premiere Rescheduled
Just a programming note, but my newest play, The Road To Lethe, which was slated to premiere at Benchmark Theatre this month has been rescheduled to open in April 2024. I'm actually quite happy about the change in timeline and look forward to sharing this piece with you all in just a few months.
On Day 17 of this year's True West Awards, veteran journalist John Moore writes, "Jake Brasch put the Colorado in the Colorado New Play Summit. But It was a banner, perhaps unprecedented year for local playwrights as a collective, too. Defying all economic likelihood coming out of the pandemic, Colorado theaters staged at least 17 full-length new plays written by local playwrights in 2023. The 23rd annual True West Awards recount 30 good stories from the year in Colorado theater in The Denver Gazette."
I was thrilled to be among the TWA-recognized playwrights for my two locally-produced plays this year, The Headliners (Cherry Creek Theatre) and Pride of the Farm (The Catamounts). This is my fourth True West Award citation and I cannot express how much it means to me to be honored for my contributions to the Colorado theater landscape.
McSweeney's Issue 72 Now Available for Purchase
I know I'm supposed to be a wordsmith or something like that, but words absolutely failed me this week when I saw my play, The Headliners, beautifully published by McSweeney's, a literary organization that has meant so much to me for so long. Issue 72 is NOW available for purchase on the McSweeney's website and I couldn't be happier with how it turned out, gorgeously packaged with photos from the play's world premiere. I do hope you'll consider buying a copy of the publication, and I urge you to share the play with any producers who are looking for a timely piece of theater that explores issues of gender, celebrity, and sexuality.
The Road to Lethe Premiere Rescheduled
Just a programming note, but my newest play, The Road To Lethe, which was slated to premiere at Benchmark Theatre this month has been rescheduled to open in April 2024. I'm actually quite happy about the change in timeline and look forward to sharing this piece with you all in just a few months.
November 2023
It’s finally here! Time to pre-order McSweeney’s Quarterly Concern Issue 72, which is being released in December and features my play THE HEADLINERS! Working with the McSweeney’s team has been pure joy and I hope you’ll consider ordering a copy.
From McSweeney's: Finish out 2023 in style with a jam-packed metaphorical evening of cultural nourishment courtesy of McSweeney’s 72. Inside this three mini-book volume (bedecked with art by printmaker David Ryan), you’ll find a new play, The Headliners, by Jeffrey Neuman (produced here in an extended playbill of black and white photos from the Denver world-premiere production along with the play’s full text); and experience the hardships and thrills of life on the road as comedian and musician Tim Heidecker guides you through his intimate diary and documentary photos of his The Two Timstour. With your whistle appropriately wetted, settle in for a full festival’s worth of literary stars including Ed Park’s latest tale of generational differences in family and love; Selena Gambrell Anderson on the intentional wrecking of a rich man’s ill-used ship; Jim Shepard’s new narrative perspective of Dr. Jekyll and his Mr. Hyde; Caleb Crain’s painfully accurate take on the time-honored tradition of hooking up at a writing conference; and Lauren Spohrer on the frightening specter of ghost planes and ghost citations, misattributions and appropriations.
For those of you not familiar with McSweeney's Quarterly Concern, It has been described as "A key barometer of the literary climate" by The New York Times and "an enduring literary presence" by Chicago Tribune. A three-time winner and nine-time finalist of the National Magazine Award for fiction, I'm thrilled to have the honor of being presented in its pages.
From McSweeney's: Finish out 2023 in style with a jam-packed metaphorical evening of cultural nourishment courtesy of McSweeney’s 72. Inside this three mini-book volume (bedecked with art by printmaker David Ryan), you’ll find a new play, The Headliners, by Jeffrey Neuman (produced here in an extended playbill of black and white photos from the Denver world-premiere production along with the play’s full text); and experience the hardships and thrills of life on the road as comedian and musician Tim Heidecker guides you through his intimate diary and documentary photos of his The Two Timstour. With your whistle appropriately wetted, settle in for a full festival’s worth of literary stars including Ed Park’s latest tale of generational differences in family and love; Selena Gambrell Anderson on the intentional wrecking of a rich man’s ill-used ship; Jim Shepard’s new narrative perspective of Dr. Jekyll and his Mr. Hyde; Caleb Crain’s painfully accurate take on the time-honored tradition of hooking up at a writing conference; and Lauren Spohrer on the frightening specter of ghost planes and ghost citations, misattributions and appropriations.
For those of you not familiar with McSweeney's Quarterly Concern, It has been described as "A key barometer of the literary climate" by The New York Times and "an enduring literary presence" by Chicago Tribune. A three-time winner and nine-time finalist of the National Magazine Award for fiction, I'm thrilled to have the honor of being presented in its pages.
OCTOBER 2023
A New Season for Pen & Podium
We kicked off our 20th anniversary season of Pen & Podium last evening with Yaa Gyasi (Homegoing, Transcendent Kingdom), who brought such warmth, intelligence, and thoughtfulness to our stage. What an extraordinary mind and what a singular talent! Not only did she talk passionately about the importance and power of reading, but also of the debt we owe our ancestors who literally laid down their lives for us to have the right to our voice and our written word. I don’t think I’ve ever been as mesmerized by an author or as transfixed by a message as I was by this spectacular young writer. A truly special evening that I was thrilled to share with so many dear friends.
AUGUST 2023
What You Will Featured in New Anthology
Really excited to share that one of the monologues from my play What You Will is featured in a new anthology by some scripts, Monologues by LGBTQIA+ Writers for LGBTQIA+ Actors. This anthology builds on some scripts' work as a literary magazine since 2019 and provides Queer and trans actors a place to seek monologues by scriptwriters that reflect their own lived experiences. Monologues by LGBTQIA+ Writers for LGBTQIA+ Actors is available for purchase at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Lulu.com, Bookshop.org, and through a number of ebook services.
JULY 2023
The Headliners Nominated for Three Henry Awards
I'm beyond excited to announce that Cherry Creek Theatre's production of The Headliners has been nominated for THREE Henry Awards, including Lead Actor, Best Costume Design, and Best New Play or Musical!
The 17th annual Colorado Theatre Guild awards ceremony, which honors outstanding achievements of Colorado's theatre community, will take place on Monday, July 24, 2023 at the Wolf Theatre in the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Pre-ceremony social time in the Wolf Theatre lobby starts at 6pm Mountain time, the ceremony begins via live-stream and in-person at 7pm Mountain time, and the evening concludes with a catered after-party on-site. There are in-person and streaming options for tickets.
This is my third nomination for Best New Play, and fingers are crossed that the third time is, as they say, a charm.
The 17th annual Colorado Theatre Guild awards ceremony, which honors outstanding achievements of Colorado's theatre community, will take place on Monday, July 24, 2023 at the Wolf Theatre in the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Pre-ceremony social time in the Wolf Theatre lobby starts at 6pm Mountain time, the ceremony begins via live-stream and in-person at 7pm Mountain time, and the evening concludes with a catered after-party on-site. There are in-person and streaming options for tickets.
This is my third nomination for Best New Play, and fingers are crossed that the third time is, as they say, a charm.
June 2023
A rainbow suddenly appears over two young lovers as they court one another through dance. A rabbit darts across a gravel-strewn path as two nurses commiserate over a well-earned end-of-day drink. A light rain kisses your cheeks as a young man mourns the untimely loss of his brother. These are the unexpected joys of immersive, site-specific theater and the heart of my next venture, which opens on June 1. Weather, wildlife, community.
The Catamounts production of PRIDE OF THE FARM runs through June 25, and I really hope you’ll come to Metzger Farm Open Space to see this charming little jaunt through time. The property is beautiful, the design work lovely, and you are going to absolutely fall in love with these actors (pictured below). Hope to see you there!
Tickets available at https://cityofwestminster.ticketspice.com/pride-of-the-farm or by clicking the image above.
Pride of the Farm in the News
Boulder Weekly: Growing Something Good
The Denver Post, Two Poignant New Shows Immerse Viewers
May 2023
THE HEADLINERS OPENS TO RAVE REVIEWS!
"When the final blackout signaled the abrupt but satisfying end of The Headliners on its sold-out opening night at Cherry Creek Theatre, the audience was already well aware we’d seen something pretty special. It’s an overused word, but “triumph” is an altogether appropriate descriptor for the world premiere of Colorado playwright Jeffrey Neuman’s fictionalized version of a real-life stunt wedding a century ago." -- OnStage Colorado
The World Premiere of The Headliners plays at Denver's Cherry Creek Theatre May 5-21. Tickets available at cherrycreektheatre.org. To read the full Opening Night review of the show from OnStage Colorado, please click the image below.
The Headliners Making Headlines
The Denver Post, "Jeffrey Neuman’s canny drama, “The Headliners,” wows at Pluss Theatre"
Colorado Public Radio, "A Colorado writer lost his hearing. Then he set out to follow his dream"
OnStage Colorado, "World premiere of ‘The Headliners’ a Triumph at Cherry Creek"
Outfront Magazine, "Jeffrey Neuman’s ‘The Headliners’ to Premiere at Cherry Creek Theater
Denver Gazette, "Denver playwright Jeffrey Neuman Hits the Trifecta"
Westword, "Twentieth-Century Vaudeville Stars Tackle 21st-Century Issues in The Headliners"
Pen & Podium
The Close of One Season and Announcement of Another
Spending an hour in conversation with Dave Eggers on May 8 was, by far, one of the highlights of my career. Not only was he a charming, funny, smart, and impassioned speaker, but he was also a kind and warm human being. The experience went from amazing to unbelievable, though, when we stepped offstage and Dave told me he’d never had so much fun during an interview before and even asked if I’d consider doing a few events with him in San Francisco. I'm still walking on air.
Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Dave's newest book The Eyes and The Impossible, a delightful all ages novel told from the point of view of Johannes, a wild dog with a mission. While you're doing yourself that favor, do yourself another and pick up his short book The Museum of Rain. It is, by far, one of my favorite short stories and perfectly encapsulates the importance of artistic expression -- how you can never quite anticipate the rippling wake of creation.
At our event with Dave, we also announced our 2023-24 season. For our 20th anniversary, we pulled out all the stops and put together quite a program:
Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Dave's newest book The Eyes and The Impossible, a delightful all ages novel told from the point of view of Johannes, a wild dog with a mission. While you're doing yourself that favor, do yourself another and pick up his short book The Museum of Rain. It is, by far, one of my favorite short stories and perfectly encapsulates the importance of artistic expression -- how you can never quite anticipate the rippling wake of creation.
At our event with Dave, we also announced our 2023-24 season. For our 20th anniversary, we pulled out all the stops and put together quite a program:
- Yaa Gyasi, October 2023
- Frances Mayes & Ruth Reichl In Conversation, November 2023
- Kristin Hannah, February 2024
- Ta-Nehisi Coates & Michael Chabon In Conversation, March 2024
- David Grann, May 2024
March 2023
A Year of Premieres!
I don’t know how on earth I got so lucky, but I’ve been gifted the opportunity to premiere three new plays in my beautiful home state of Colorado this year. Three! From a vaudeville stage in New York (THE HEADLINERS) to a jaunt through time on a historical Colorado property (PRIDE OF THE FARM) to my very personal response to the Black Lives Matter movement (THE ROAD TO LETHE) — 3 wildly different plays presented by 3 amazingly different companies. I hope you’ll join me for the journeys.
The Headliners, Cherry Creek Theatre, May 5-21
Pride of the Farm, The Catamounts, May-June, Dates TBD
The Road to Lethe ,Benchmark Theatre, December 2-23
Thrilled to have my short play Delivered included in And Toto too Theatre Company’s Queer Reading Series — March 29, 7PM (Aurora, Colorado). It’s one of my most award-winning, yet seldom-produced pieces and tells the story of four people whose lives collide when they witness a strange and disturbing occurrence. Based on real events, Delivered is about the dangerous crossroads of homophobia and complacency.
2022 In Review
October 2022
At Long Last ... Barbara Kingsolver
“One of the things that literature does best, is that it generates empathy. Nothing else gives you that gift, provides you that journey. When you close a book, you come out of it a different person.”
I’ve wanted to host Barbara Kingsolver for years; so, her appearance at Pen & Podium on Monday, October 24 was literally a dream come true, and Ms. Kingsolver was as lovely and as genuine as you’d expect. Generous, too! She is the very first author we’ve ever hosted who donated 100% of her speaker’s fee to Colorado-based charities, all organizations she said she’d want to be a part of if she lived locally. It nourished me more than I can possibly express to have hosted a person who lives in a place of such kindness, empathy, and gratitude.
Getting "Funky" in Colorado Springs
Y'all know I love writing short work, so I simply couldn't say "no" to the Funky Little Theatre Co. when they asked me to contribute a 4-minute play to their inaugural Play Crawl, which is kind of like a pub crawl but with plays, where an audience travels from venue to venue to indulge in a bit of fun and frivolity. I was assigned two venues, one for each night of the Crawl, an ice cream parlor and a dance studio. Since my play needed to pull double-duty venue-wise, I wrote a play about a woman tries to get creative helping her best friend come to terms with a personal loss. The Present is based on a ten-minute play I've been developing, but worked beautifully in the shorter format.
“One of the things that literature does best, is that it generates empathy. Nothing else gives you that gift, provides you that journey. When you close a book, you come out of it a different person.”
I’ve wanted to host Barbara Kingsolver for years; so, her appearance at Pen & Podium on Monday, October 24 was literally a dream come true, and Ms. Kingsolver was as lovely and as genuine as you’d expect. Generous, too! She is the very first author we’ve ever hosted who donated 100% of her speaker’s fee to Colorado-based charities, all organizations she said she’d want to be a part of if she lived locally. It nourished me more than I can possibly express to have hosted a person who lives in a place of such kindness, empathy, and gratitude.
Getting "Funky" in Colorado Springs
Y'all know I love writing short work, so I simply couldn't say "no" to the Funky Little Theatre Co. when they asked me to contribute a 4-minute play to their inaugural Play Crawl, which is kind of like a pub crawl but with plays, where an audience travels from venue to venue to indulge in a bit of fun and frivolity. I was assigned two venues, one for each night of the Crawl, an ice cream parlor and a dance studio. Since my play needed to pull double-duty venue-wise, I wrote a play about a woman tries to get creative helping her best friend come to terms with a personal loss. The Present is based on a ten-minute play I've been developing, but worked beautifully in the shorter format.
September 2022
Pen & Podium Launches Its 2022-23 Season with a MASTER Storyteller
On Monday, September 19, we launched our 19th season of Pen & Podium with a wonderful presentation by Colm Tóibín. Colm charmed our audience with his intelligence, compassion, wit, and genial storytelling. Offstage, he was a delight to host, exuding warmth and kindness at every turn and chatting freely on everything from playing tennis with Pedro Almodóvar to writing the libretto of his first opera (which premiered in Boulder, Colorado !). I've always felt so connected to Colm's writing, so it was joyful to be able to connect with him as a human being.
On Monday, September 19, we launched our 19th season of Pen & Podium with a wonderful presentation by Colm Tóibín. Colm charmed our audience with his intelligence, compassion, wit, and genial storytelling. Offstage, he was a delight to host, exuding warmth and kindness at every turn and chatting freely on everything from playing tennis with Pedro Almodóvar to writing the libretto of his first opera (which premiered in Boulder, Colorado !). I've always felt so connected to Colm's writing, so it was joyful to be able to connect with him as a human being.
June 2022
STEALING SLEEP Premieres at FUSION Theatre Company's THE SEVEN
It is WITH great pleasure that my short piece, STEALING SLEEP, was chosen as one of the seven winning entries of THE SEVEN, FUSION Theatre Company's 16th annual short works festival. The script, which has been turned into a short film but never produced on stage before, was selected from over 700 entries from 46 states and 11 countries. The play will be produced June 16th - 19th in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
I'm particularly thrilled that Stealing Sleep marks my fifth time to be represented at this esteemed playwriting festival, three times as a "winner" and twice as a finalist.
It is WITH great pleasure that my short piece, STEALING SLEEP, was chosen as one of the seven winning entries of THE SEVEN, FUSION Theatre Company's 16th annual short works festival. The script, which has been turned into a short film but never produced on stage before, was selected from over 700 entries from 46 states and 11 countries. The play will be produced June 16th - 19th in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
I'm particularly thrilled that Stealing Sleep marks my fifth time to be represented at this esteemed playwriting festival, three times as a "winner" and twice as a finalist.
Getting Sexy in Denver
My good friends at One Night Stand Theater let me air some dirty laundry when they produced a reading of a short piece I wrote called Not In My Backyard. "Backyard" isn't so much a play as it is an Abbott and Costello sex sketch, and it was pure joy hearing a theater FILLED with laughter as all my naughty jokes about safety words, legumes, and boudoir experimentation landed with full force. It was an added bonus that my piece got to share the stage with works by dear friends Edith Weiss, Josh Hartwell, and Colette Mazunik, all of whom brought amazing work to the show.
My good friends at One Night Stand Theater let me air some dirty laundry when they produced a reading of a short piece I wrote called Not In My Backyard. "Backyard" isn't so much a play as it is an Abbott and Costello sex sketch, and it was pure joy hearing a theater FILLED with laughter as all my naughty jokes about safety words, legumes, and boudoir experimentation landed with full force. It was an added bonus that my piece got to share the stage with works by dear friends Edith Weiss, Josh Hartwell, and Colette Mazunik, all of whom brought amazing work to the show.
May 2022
THE HEADLINERS Honored as 2022-23 Woodward/Newman Award Finalist
I'm absolutely THRILLED to announce that my play THE HEADLINERS was listed as a finalist for the 2022-23 Woodward/Newman Award! Of this year's plays, the Producing Artistic Director of Bloomington Playwrights Project writes, "Choosing a single play from among such a competitive field was a difficult process, and I'm happy to report that your play was selected as one of this year's Top 13 Finalists. Unfortunately, it was not selected as the winner, but congratulations are still in order. From over one thousand plays, yours was selected by our committee as being among the best of the best. That’s no small feat." The list of my fellow Woodward/Newman Award Finalists, along with the winner, is posted at https://www.newplays.org/woodward-newman-winner/.
ON THE ROCKS Published By Next Stage Press
I’m really proud and honored to have my short play On The Rocks included in the collection Disability Forward!, which is now available for purchase and licensing.
DISABILITY FORWARD! is a first – a collection of 11 short plays, all of which include Deaf or Disabled characters. The plays are written in a wide variety of styles, ranging from folksy naturalism to biting satire to searing drama. The richly drawn characters span ethnic groups, sexuality and gender identification, and provide outstanding – and much-needed opportunities for Deaf or Disabled actors.
I hope you’ll consider adding this anthology to your collection, reading the plays, and perhaps (hello, producers out there!) licensing them for production. Click on image below for link to purchase or license.
I'm absolutely THRILLED to announce that my play THE HEADLINERS was listed as a finalist for the 2022-23 Woodward/Newman Award! Of this year's plays, the Producing Artistic Director of Bloomington Playwrights Project writes, "Choosing a single play from among such a competitive field was a difficult process, and I'm happy to report that your play was selected as one of this year's Top 13 Finalists. Unfortunately, it was not selected as the winner, but congratulations are still in order. From over one thousand plays, yours was selected by our committee as being among the best of the best. That’s no small feat." The list of my fellow Woodward/Newman Award Finalists, along with the winner, is posted at https://www.newplays.org/woodward-newman-winner/.
ON THE ROCKS Published By Next Stage Press
I’m really proud and honored to have my short play On The Rocks included in the collection Disability Forward!, which is now available for purchase and licensing.
DISABILITY FORWARD! is a first – a collection of 11 short plays, all of which include Deaf or Disabled characters. The plays are written in a wide variety of styles, ranging from folksy naturalism to biting satire to searing drama. The richly drawn characters span ethnic groups, sexuality and gender identification, and provide outstanding – and much-needed opportunities for Deaf or Disabled actors.
I hope you’ll consider adding this anthology to your collection, reading the plays, and perhaps (hello, producers out there!) licensing them for production. Click on image below for link to purchase or license.
March 2022
Pen & Podium with Jhumpa Lahiri: It’s very rare that I’m so overwhelmed by a book that tears rob me of my ability to read. Virtually every time it has happened, though, it’s been because of Jhumpa Lahiri and the way she writes with such emotional authenticity.
Jhumpa has been one of my wish-list authors to host for years and it was an absolute joy to meet and spend time with her on Monday evening, when we got to discuss translation, art, writing, and our mutual love of language. Oh, and we got to chat about Beckett and Chekhov, too, so <swoon>.
Jhumpa has been one of my wish-list authors to host for years and it was an absolute joy to meet and spend time with her on Monday evening, when we got to discuss translation, art, writing, and our mutual love of language. Oh, and we got to chat about Beckett and Chekhov, too, so <swoon>.
2021 In Review
December 2021
Land of Milk and Honey
Honored with True West Award
So grateful to Moore Media for recognizing LAND OF MILK AND HONEY with a True West Award. This piece was created with such love, in the spirit of true collaboration, and as a celebration of community and human resilience. See below for the award citation, written by John Moore.
2021 TRUE WEST AWARD (Citation):
For the first half of the 20th century, families (including mine) flocked to Colorado from all over the world in the hope that its dry mountain air would cure loved ones of tuberculosis, one of the deadliest respiratory diseases in history. Some were rich, most were poor, but the immigration surge changed the face of Denver forever, drawing everyone from future Mayor Robert Speer to architect Temple Hoyne Buell to gunslinger Doc Holliday to my Aunt Pat.
National Jewish Hospital made it clear that it would treat all comers, regardless of ability to pay, and the 800-acre Shoenberg Farm in Westminster would feed them.
Last June, when presenting indoor theatre was still a sketchy proposition, Boulder’s The Catamounts planted, cultivated and harvested “Land of Milk and Honey” as an original, site-specific, immersive theatrical journey written by Denver playwright Jeff Neuman. For the play, created at the request of the City of Westminster, the audience was guided through a series of individual scenes and monologues that cover the arc of the disease, and the historic farm, over a century. The project was consistent with The Catamounts’ mantra that theatre should be a very live and adaptive art form.
“Land of Milk and Honey” was a way of talking about COVID, and about all of the things we have lost in the past year – without actually talking about COVID.
“I was struck by the idea that when something terrible happens, you respond to your grief by trying to save others,” said Director Amanda Berg Wilson. “This seemed like a redemptive response to the kind of grief we all have been feeling over the past year.”
This spirit-filled journey was steeped in the religious traditions of founder and philanthropist Louis Shoenberg, who lost his only son to T.B. Neuman’s gentle play was a study in human compassion that reminded the audience that human history has been filled with seemingly unprecedented pandemics. And without ever using the word “COVID,” it left us with the hope that one day, this latest public-health crisis will be part of our collective past, as well.
You said it: “From the start, The Catamounts' unerringly engaging production casts the audience as participant-observers, often to tender and illuminating effect. In addition to offering a poignant (and timely) history lesson, there are hymns and dancing, ghosts and quite a few moments of winking humor.” – Lisa Kennedy, The Denver Post
The #TrueWestAwards, now in their 21st year, began as the Denver Post Ovation Awards in 2001. Senior Arts Journalist John Moore — with input from voices from around the state — celebrates the Colorado theatre community by revisiting 30 of the best stories from the past year, without categories or nominations. Moore was named one of the 12 most influential theater critics in the U.S. by American Theatre magazine in 2011 and now administers the True West Awards through his journalism-minded content agency, Moore Media. #30Days30Bouquets
2021 TRUE WEST AWARD (Citation):
For the first half of the 20th century, families (including mine) flocked to Colorado from all over the world in the hope that its dry mountain air would cure loved ones of tuberculosis, one of the deadliest respiratory diseases in history. Some were rich, most were poor, but the immigration surge changed the face of Denver forever, drawing everyone from future Mayor Robert Speer to architect Temple Hoyne Buell to gunslinger Doc Holliday to my Aunt Pat.
National Jewish Hospital made it clear that it would treat all comers, regardless of ability to pay, and the 800-acre Shoenberg Farm in Westminster would feed them.
Last June, when presenting indoor theatre was still a sketchy proposition, Boulder’s The Catamounts planted, cultivated and harvested “Land of Milk and Honey” as an original, site-specific, immersive theatrical journey written by Denver playwright Jeff Neuman. For the play, created at the request of the City of Westminster, the audience was guided through a series of individual scenes and monologues that cover the arc of the disease, and the historic farm, over a century. The project was consistent with The Catamounts’ mantra that theatre should be a very live and adaptive art form.
“Land of Milk and Honey” was a way of talking about COVID, and about all of the things we have lost in the past year – without actually talking about COVID.
“I was struck by the idea that when something terrible happens, you respond to your grief by trying to save others,” said Director Amanda Berg Wilson. “This seemed like a redemptive response to the kind of grief we all have been feeling over the past year.”
This spirit-filled journey was steeped in the religious traditions of founder and philanthropist Louis Shoenberg, who lost his only son to T.B. Neuman’s gentle play was a study in human compassion that reminded the audience that human history has been filled with seemingly unprecedented pandemics. And without ever using the word “COVID,” it left us with the hope that one day, this latest public-health crisis will be part of our collective past, as well.
You said it: “From the start, The Catamounts' unerringly engaging production casts the audience as participant-observers, often to tender and illuminating effect. In addition to offering a poignant (and timely) history lesson, there are hymns and dancing, ghosts and quite a few moments of winking humor.” – Lisa Kennedy, The Denver Post
The #TrueWestAwards, now in their 21st year, began as the Denver Post Ovation Awards in 2001. Senior Arts Journalist John Moore — with input from voices from around the state — celebrates the Colorado theatre community by revisiting 30 of the best stories from the past year, without categories or nominations. Moore was named one of the 12 most influential theater critics in the U.S. by American Theatre magazine in 2011 and now administers the True West Awards through his journalism-minded content agency, Moore Media. #30Days30Bouquets
November 2021
Pen & Podium with Susan Orlean: One thing I’ve always loved about Susan Orlean’s writing is that she somehow finds the universal in the unique, the tragicomic beauty of the unknown and the unexplored. Hosting Susan last night was a COMPLETE joy and her lecture did not disappoint. Where else, in just one hour, could you go on a journey that included (among many other things) cab driving royalty, Benetton sweater-folding skills, show dog Tinder profiles, quests for immortality, creative procrastination techniques, and the employment rights of cockroach actors.
The world is rich with real-but-unexpected stories, and we are all so fortunate that, somehow someway, writers like Susan Orlean have been given the opportunity to follow their curiosity in order to pique our own.
The world is rich with real-but-unexpected stories, and we are all so fortunate that, somehow someway, writers like Susan Orlean have been given the opportunity to follow their curiosity in order to pique our own.
October 2021
Pen & Podium with Gregory Maguire: You’re never quite sure what you’re going to get when you host an author. Some writers have a quiet energy — beautiful, warm, and glowing, but somewhat guarded and cautious. Some are over-the-top extroverts—impish, side-splitting storytellers, equally beautiful in their liveliness and effervescence.
Truthfully, I didn’t know what to expect from Gregory Maguire, whose books are filled with playfulness and humor but also steeped in socio/political philosophy and cultural anthropology. What we got on Monday night was … unforgettable and different from any author I’ve hosted in recent memory.
Gregory was a charming and delightful speaker, who was equal parts candid (telling us about his mother’s death in childbirth and the adoption of his three children), insightful (expounding on the ways in which childhood stories build our moral and cognitive character), and surprising (he spontaneously sang a song from WICKED, full-on Ethel Merman-y!). I can’t remember the last time I so lost myself in an event, and I’m grateful to Gregory and the audience for such a spectacular and memorable evening.
Truthfully, I didn’t know what to expect from Gregory Maguire, whose books are filled with playfulness and humor but also steeped in socio/political philosophy and cultural anthropology. What we got on Monday night was … unforgettable and different from any author I’ve hosted in recent memory.
Gregory was a charming and delightful speaker, who was equal parts candid (telling us about his mother’s death in childbirth and the adoption of his three children), insightful (expounding on the ways in which childhood stories build our moral and cognitive character), and surprising (he spontaneously sang a song from WICKED, full-on Ethel Merman-y!). I can’t remember the last time I so lost myself in an event, and I’m grateful to Gregory and the audience for such a spectacular and memorable evening.
September 2021
Pen & Podium with Tara Westover: I didn’t realize how much I’ve missed this: eight hundred plus readers and a featured author under the same roof, brought together by the love of reading. Tara Westover was a wonderful guest and, in many ways, the perfect “welcome back” event. Not only was she warm, funny, friendly, and incredibly down-to-earth; but it was also so special spending time with an artist whose life was so positively, so irrevocably changed by books and the written word. And, to have her close the program singing a hymn in that gorgeously otherworldly voice of hers was as moving as it was unforgettable.
Next up, on October 18 we’re gonna get WICKED with Gregory Maguire!
Next up, on October 18 we’re gonna get WICKED with Gregory Maguire!
July 2021
The Headliners Named a 2021 O'Neill Finalist!
I’m thrilled to share the news that my play The Headliners was selected as a 2021 O’Neill FINALIST! This play has meant so much to me, and I’m beyond excited/humbled to make this list alongside so many playwrights I respect and admire.
Announcing their National Playwrights Conference finalists,
Literary Manager Lexy Leuszler writes, "This exceptional assemblage of writers and their work represent the forefront of artistry, curiosity, and perspective. These voices are essential to our shared understanding of the human experience as they imagine thrilling theatrical and social futures across their work. We highly encourage you to investigate and connect with these artists and firmly believe they deserve the attention of a national new work audience."
I’m thrilled to share the news that my play The Headliners was selected as a 2021 O’Neill FINALIST! This play has meant so much to me, and I’m beyond excited/humbled to make this list alongside so many playwrights I respect and admire.
Announcing their National Playwrights Conference finalists,
Literary Manager Lexy Leuszler writes, "This exceptional assemblage of writers and their work represent the forefront of artistry, curiosity, and perspective. These voices are essential to our shared understanding of the human experience as they imagine thrilling theatrical and social futures across their work. We highly encourage you to investigate and connect with these artists and firmly believe they deserve the attention of a national new work audience."
June 2021
What an extraordinary month it has been, having two new works being produced concurrently -- one a reading, the other a full production!
In 2019-20, I had the great privilege of writing a new play in residency at Denver Center for the Performing Arts as part of the organization's first ever Playwright's Group. Very sadly, we were never able to present a reading of the play in its entirety due to the pandemic. Now, very luckily, Cherry Creek Theatre, has inaugurated a new play reading series and the play, THE HEADLINERS, will finally get to be shared!
A virtual reading of this play with music, directed by Gail Luna and starring Jeremy Rill and Isabella Duran, will stream online June 4-13; more information can be found at https://cherrycreektheatre.org/production/the-headliners/.
A virtual reading of this play with music, directed by Gail Luna and starring Jeremy Rill and Isabella Duran, will stream online June 4-13; more information can be found at https://cherrycreektheatre.org/production/the-headliners/.
Land of Milk and Honey has been a phenomenal experience from conception and planning to final dress and opening night. Now, the play has a sold out run and is getting beautiful notices from audiences and critics alike. The Denver Post gave the production a 4 out of 4 star review, calling it "tender and illuminating." "By this point in human history," critic Lisa Kennedy writes, "one might argue that the biblically promised land of milk and honey is always a place in need of creation, the never-ending work of human compassion, more than an actual destination. Thanks to the Catamounts, this “Land of Milk and Honey” is a bold expression of theater’s benevolent possibilities and a worthwhile destination." For the full Denver Post review, click on the image above.
May 2021
Land of Milk and Honey
Though I’ve been uncharacteristically tight-lipped about my playwriting over the past several months, I’m slowly getting to a point where I can share some exciting developments, projects, and announcements. One of the most thrilling and fulfilling of these endeavors is Land of Milk and Honey, a new piece I've written for The Catamounts, which runs in-person June 4-27.
Land of Milk and Honey is a site-specific theatrical journey that will bring to life the rich history of Shoenberg Farm. Small, socially-distanced groups will travel through one of Colorado's most historic properties, where the state's agricultural, philanthropic, and immigrant heritage once dynamically converged.
Part ghost story, part time travel, and wholly a celebration of how humans can turn personal tragedy into an act of community compassion. You won't want to miss this production. It feels like the perfect was for all of us -- audiences and theater makers alike -- to re-engage our relationship with live theatre.
Tickets are on sale HERE. $5/ticket discount through May 16th with the discount code "EARLYBIRD"
Land of Milk and Honey is a site-specific theatrical journey that will bring to life the rich history of Shoenberg Farm. Small, socially-distanced groups will travel through one of Colorado's most historic properties, where the state's agricultural, philanthropic, and immigrant heritage once dynamically converged.
Part ghost story, part time travel, and wholly a celebration of how humans can turn personal tragedy into an act of community compassion. You won't want to miss this production. It feels like the perfect was for all of us -- audiences and theater makers alike -- to re-engage our relationship with live theatre.
Tickets are on sale HERE. $5/ticket discount through May 16th with the discount code "EARLYBIRD"
Top row, left to right: Jeffrey Neuman, Playwright; Amanda Berg Wilson, Director; Lynde Rosario, Dramaturg; Chris Kendall, Louis; Christine Kahane, Seraphine
Middle row, left to right: Justy Robinson, Dudley; Amelia Corrada, Ruth/T. Burke; Sam Gilstrap, Jacob/Frank; Joan Bruemmer-Holden, Assistant Director/Carrie/Dolley; Nicole Watts, Costume Designer
Bottom row, left to right: Matthew Schlief, Production Designer; Max Silverman, Sound Designer; Wayne Breyer, Stage Manager; Josiah Fingerlin, Assistant Stage Manager; Lara Maerz, Assistant Stage Manager
January 2021
Pen & Podium Virtual Season Announced
Though we are saddened by the fact that we will not be able to host live in-person events until at least late Fall of this year, The Denver Post is proud to present the 2021 Pen & Podium Series virtually, featuring five interview-style events with some of the world's most distinguished and thought-provoking writers. This year's authors are Timothy Egan, Marlon James, Yotam Ottolenghi, Tayari Jones, and Emma Donoghue. I am thrilled and delighted to announce that I will be hosting the one-on-one interview with Donoghue, whose books I've loved since I stumbled upon her novel Slammerkin over twenty years ago.
Tickets are $35 each. To purchase, click here or see below. All events will begin at 7:30 p.m. MDT. Running time is approximately 60 - 75 minutes. For more information on The Denver Post Pen & Podium Series, visit penandpodium.com/virtual2021 .
Tickets are $35 each. To purchase, click here or see below. All events will begin at 7:30 p.m. MDT. Running time is approximately 60 - 75 minutes. For more information on The Denver Post Pen & Podium Series, visit penandpodium.com/virtual2021 .
2020 In Review
December 2020
Incessant Hum To Stream Online
I'm so thrilled that Incessant Hum is being made available virtually to celebrate Beethoven’s birthday! This music/theater hybrid was developed in such an environment of love, collaboration, and creativity, so please tune in on December 16, 19, or 20 to see Chris Kendall and Chelsea Frye's gorgeous performances, Mare Trevathan's skillful direction, and to hear the Colorado Chamber Players perform some of Beethoven’s most exquisite music. I think, too, that the whole piece has taken on new resonance and meaning in light of the pandemic, because it is about what we can truly stand to gain in the wake of incredible loss. Tickets available by clicking the photo above!
Pre-Order Your Copy of
Marginalia Today!
When I wrote Marginalia a couple of years ago, I had no idea the doors it would open, the friends it would bring into my life, or the joyful path it would take to production. It was just a short, prompt-based piece of theater writing about one of my favorite subjects — the power of books.
I’m so thrilled that this little book-loving play has been gifted a new way to reach audiences, appropriately, in book form! Marginalia will be included in Bite Size an anthology of micro plays written by Colorado-based playwrights, each of which was chosen for inclusion by Denver Center for the Performing Arts's Off-Center and staged at Denver’s BookBar.
BITE SIZE goes on sale on December 15 and you can pre-order your copy now, receiving a 10% discount with code BITESIZE10! All royalties from the book will benefit Denver Center for Performing Arts and, as you know, arts organizations have been hit very hard by the pandemic.
Order a copy today to support new playwrights, independent bookstores, and a major voice in regional theater. https://www.bookbardenver.com/bookbar-press
I’m so thrilled that this little book-loving play has been gifted a new way to reach audiences, appropriately, in book form! Marginalia will be included in Bite Size an anthology of micro plays written by Colorado-based playwrights, each of which was chosen for inclusion by Denver Center for the Performing Arts's Off-Center and staged at Denver’s BookBar.
BITE SIZE goes on sale on December 15 and you can pre-order your copy now, receiving a 10% discount with code BITESIZE10! All royalties from the book will benefit Denver Center for Performing Arts and, as you know, arts organizations have been hit very hard by the pandemic.
Order a copy today to support new playwrights, independent bookstores, and a major voice in regional theater. https://www.bookbardenver.com/bookbar-press
October 2020
THE SHELTER PLAYS, Stealing Sleep: Several months ago, when we were in the middle of our shelter in place mandate, I was invited to participate in a project called THE SHELTER PLAYS, which was designed to be a “collaboration of artists creating a new type of theatre when there was none to be found.”
I wrote a short play for the project called STEALING SLEEP that explores the strained crossroads of insomnia, intimacy, and isolation. SLEEP was turned into a beautiful little film starring two of Denver’s favorite actors, Andrew and Kelly Uhlenhopp. If you're looking for some entertainment in these still uncertain and largely-theaterless times, I encourage you to check out the Uhlenhopps lovely performance in my piece along with the other wonderful and diverse plays that are available for free at www.theshelterplays.com. STEALING SLEEP is available by clicking on the image below.
Please don't hesitate to contact me, too, if you have any questions about the project or would like to speak to the production team about bringing any of the SHELTER PLAYS to your theater.
I wrote a short play for the project called STEALING SLEEP that explores the strained crossroads of insomnia, intimacy, and isolation. SLEEP was turned into a beautiful little film starring two of Denver’s favorite actors, Andrew and Kelly Uhlenhopp. If you're looking for some entertainment in these still uncertain and largely-theaterless times, I encourage you to check out the Uhlenhopps lovely performance in my piece along with the other wonderful and diverse plays that are available for free at www.theshelterplays.com. STEALING SLEEP is available by clicking on the image below.
Please don't hesitate to contact me, too, if you have any questions about the project or would like to speak to the production team about bringing any of the SHELTER PLAYS to your theater.
July 2020
Pen & Podium: Michael Pollan: Like most of the world, Pen & Podium has moved to a virtual platform, though we have made every effort to keep our lectures dynamic, relevant, and commensurate with our live format. This was not just a Zoom conversation, but rather a carefully curated virtual event. Working in conjunction with a wonderful Colorado-based production company, we filmed our 2019-20 remaining season author conversation and broadcast the first, Michael Pollan, on Monday, July 20. Michael was a spectacular guest -- charming, insightful, intelligent, funny, and incredibly flexible given the novelty of this new format and everything it entailed. Moderated by Shelly Smith-Acuna, the conversation touched on everything from contemporary American food culture to participatory journalism to psychedelics to COVID-19. "Writing still matters," Michael told us. "You can still reach the culture and shift the conversation with a great number of words arranged very carefully."
May & June 2020
Stealing Sleep: I wish I could tell you that this pandemic has been, if nothing else, a fruitful and generative time for my writing. It has not. Like may artists, I'm struggling with inertia, confusion, and loss. I simply don't know what the future will hold for us as theater-makers and it has me in a place of uncertainty and stagnation. I want to create, to speak to what we, as fellow humans, are experiencing; but I have temporarily lost my voice, my vision, and my drive to do so. I've also, seemingly, lost my ability to sleep, which prompted me to dip my toe back into writing and, ironically, try to awaken my playwriting.
A few months ago, I saw a call for submissions related to the pandemic. I had no interest or desire to write a "pandemic play"; however, the prompt was loosey-goosey enough that it did stir my creative juices. Producer Andrew Brier asked playwrights to write short pieces that spoke to the theme of "Shelter in Place." The prompt made me think about my current situation, my sleeplessness, and I wrote a short play about the crossroads of intimacy, insomnia, and isolation called Stealing Sleep.
Though Brier is still trying to figure out the best path and use of the "Shelter" plays he's compiled, it looks as though he is packaging the pieces into a hybrid theater/film combo that will be presented as potential programming for production companies to produce as they re-open their spaces. Whatever the future holds for this project, I was absolutely delighted to see the script brought to life as a short film, starring two of my favorite Denver-based actors, Andrew and Kelly Uhlenhopp. Once I get the green light, I'll share this lovely little film with you all.
A few months ago, I saw a call for submissions related to the pandemic. I had no interest or desire to write a "pandemic play"; however, the prompt was loosey-goosey enough that it did stir my creative juices. Producer Andrew Brier asked playwrights to write short pieces that spoke to the theme of "Shelter in Place." The prompt made me think about my current situation, my sleeplessness, and I wrote a short play about the crossroads of intimacy, insomnia, and isolation called Stealing Sleep.
Though Brier is still trying to figure out the best path and use of the "Shelter" plays he's compiled, it looks as though he is packaging the pieces into a hybrid theater/film combo that will be presented as potential programming for production companies to produce as they re-open their spaces. Whatever the future holds for this project, I was absolutely delighted to see the script brought to life as a short film, starring two of my favorite Denver-based actors, Andrew and Kelly Uhlenhopp. Once I get the green light, I'll share this lovely little film with you all.
January 2020
Pen & Podium: Michael Ondaatje: On Monday, January 27, we had the distinct pleasure of hosting Michael Ondaatje on our P&P stage. Ironically, The English Patient author was feeling a bit under the weather; however, he persevered and gave a riveting lecture that touched on, among many other things, "blood dread" and "narrative ruthlessness." It was an exceptionally thoughtful talk about the craft of writing. "The first sentence of every novel, " he stated, "should be: Trust me, this will take time, but there is order here, very faint, very human. Meander if you want to get to town."
In 2020, as the world celebrates the 250th anniversary of Ludwig Van Beethoven’s birth, musical and historical organizations around the world are paying homage to the composer's life and legacy. I’m thrilled to have been invited to contribute to this worldwide celebration with Incessant Hum, a commission from the Colorado Chamber Players (www.coloradochamberplayers.org).
Incessant Hum is a music and theatre performance piece that explores the emotional world Beethoven navigated as he lost his hearing and his ability to perform as a pianist and a conductor. Directed by Mare Trevathan, starring Chris Kendall and Chelsea Frye, and featuring Andrew Cooperstock and the Colorado Chamber Players, Incessant Hum promises to be a dynamic and unique point of entry into the genius of Beethoven’s later works, all of which he wrote when he was deaf.
Working with this team of artists has been a rewarding collaborative experience that has allowed me to grow as a writer and further explore the terrain of living as an artist with hearing loss. I hope you’ll consider joining us for this exciting new work.
Press for Incessant Hum:
Westword: "Incessant Hum Explores Beethoven's Deafness and Music"
Daily Camera: "Beethoven’s resilience, despite deafness"
Incessant Hum is a music and theatre performance piece that explores the emotional world Beethoven navigated as he lost his hearing and his ability to perform as a pianist and a conductor. Directed by Mare Trevathan, starring Chris Kendall and Chelsea Frye, and featuring Andrew Cooperstock and the Colorado Chamber Players, Incessant Hum promises to be a dynamic and unique point of entry into the genius of Beethoven’s later works, all of which he wrote when he was deaf.
Working with this team of artists has been a rewarding collaborative experience that has allowed me to grow as a writer and further explore the terrain of living as an artist with hearing loss. I hope you’ll consider joining us for this exciting new work.
Press for Incessant Hum:
Westword: "Incessant Hum Explores Beethoven's Deafness and Music"
Daily Camera: "Beethoven’s resilience, despite deafness"
2019 In Review
November 2019
Pen and Podium: Andrew Sean Greer: I don't think I've ever been as smitten with an author as I am with Andrew Sean Greer. Seriously. No, I mean … s.e.r.i.o.u.s.l.y! Like, if he'd asked me to run away with him, it totally might've happened.
😇
Hosting Andy on Monday evening was PURE JOY! What a lovely, kind, sweet, funny man. I've always been a great admirer of his lyrical, artful prose; now, I'm a great admirer of his beautiful, generous, light-filled personality. I just love it when an artist turns out to be as wonderful as the work they create.
😇
Hosting Andy on Monday evening was PURE JOY! What a lovely, kind, sweet, funny man. I've always been a great admirer of his lyrical, artful prose; now, I'm a great admirer of his beautiful, generous, light-filled personality. I just love it when an artist turns out to be as wonderful as the work they create.
On The Rocks -- Denver, Colorado: Six plays. Six playwrights with disabilities. Six human senses … yes, six. (Or perhaps more.) For the first time, Phamaly Theatre Company presents a one-act play festival featuring the work of playwrights with disabilities, with short plays that engage, explore, or challenge the human senses. The plays will be performed in uniquely interactive spaces at Denver’s RedLine Contemporary Art Center, and will feature the talents of Phamaly actors and various local directors.
For more information, please visit www.phamaly.org or click on the image to read "Uncommon Senses," a profile of the project at the DCPA News Center.
For more information, please visit www.phamaly.org or click on the image to read "Uncommon Senses," a profile of the project at the DCPA News Center.
October 2019
Sharing new work is a trust fall. It takes such courage and requires such vulnerability. This week of October 21, I got to see so many of my colleagues take that trust fall and I cannot tell you how much it amazes and inspires me as a writer and as a human being.
On Tuesday, October 22 I had the great pleasure of co-hosting another installment of Rough Draught Playwrights' Open Mic Theatrical Playground, where several of my incredibly talented friends, including Jessica Austgen and Frank Oteri, presented works-in-progress.
Then, from Thursday through Sunday, Benchmark Theatre produced its third annual Fever Dream Festival, a yearly celebration of science fiction, fantasy, and horror playwriting that I curate for the company. This year, we had over 400 submissions from all over the world and it was an exciting, eclectic mix of scripts that ultimately made it to our stage. The highlight of the weekend for me, personally, was to present FDF's first ever development session, where we workshopped Ellen K. Graham's gorgeously ambitious play Loki's Monstrous Children. Ellen is a spectacular writer, whose work continues to inspire and drive me to be a better playwright myself.
On Tuesday, October 22 I had the great pleasure of co-hosting another installment of Rough Draught Playwrights' Open Mic Theatrical Playground, where several of my incredibly talented friends, including Jessica Austgen and Frank Oteri, presented works-in-progress.
Then, from Thursday through Sunday, Benchmark Theatre produced its third annual Fever Dream Festival, a yearly celebration of science fiction, fantasy, and horror playwriting that I curate for the company. This year, we had over 400 submissions from all over the world and it was an exciting, eclectic mix of scripts that ultimately made it to our stage. The highlight of the weekend for me, personally, was to present FDF's first ever development session, where we workshopped Ellen K. Graham's gorgeously ambitious play Loki's Monstrous Children. Ellen is a spectacular writer, whose work continues to inspire and drive me to be a better playwright myself.
September 2019
Pen & Podium: Jesmyn Ward: Every event I have the privilege of hosting for Pen & Podium makes me love my life anew. I seriously can’t imagine what my world would feel like without books, authors, and readers. On Monday, September 23, I had the great privilege to host National Book Award-winning author Jesmyn Ward, who presented a powerful, thoughtful, and very personal lecture about her coming-to-writing story as well as her thoughts on “blood dread” and “narrative ruthlessness," two concepts that made a huge impression on me and will, no doubt, have an impact on my own writing.
Dramatists Guild of America -- I know I already wear a lot of hats, but I was just invited to take on a new role that I’m really excited about! Beginning this month, I’ll be one of two Dramatists Guild Ambassadors for the Colorado region, where I’ll be supporting our Regional Rep Josh Hartwell with programming to ensure that dramatists in all parts of the state can feel actively engaged in the DG community. I’m thrilled to be working with Josh, the Guild, and my fellow ambassador (and new friend!) Lynn Evertowski!
New Play Development Roundtable -- What an extraordinary evening we shared on September 9 as Rough Draught Playwrights hosted a roundtable conversation about the new play development in Colorado with several companies committed to Front Range playwriting. It was so exciting and informative to discuss the state of local playwriting with artists from 5280 Arts Coop, Boulder Ensemble Theatre Company, And Toto too Theatre Company, Questionable Theatrics, Athena Project Festival, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, and Theater 29.
Dramatists Guild of America -- I know I already wear a lot of hats, but I was just invited to take on a new role that I’m really excited about! Beginning this month, I’ll be one of two Dramatists Guild Ambassadors for the Colorado region, where I’ll be supporting our Regional Rep Josh Hartwell with programming to ensure that dramatists in all parts of the state can feel actively engaged in the DG community. I’m thrilled to be working with Josh, the Guild, and my fellow ambassador (and new friend!) Lynn Evertowski!
New Play Development Roundtable -- What an extraordinary evening we shared on September 9 as Rough Draught Playwrights hosted a roundtable conversation about the new play development in Colorado with several companies committed to Front Range playwriting. It was so exciting and informative to discuss the state of local playwriting with artists from 5280 Arts Coop, Boulder Ensemble Theatre Company, And Toto too Theatre Company, Questionable Theatrics, Athena Project Festival, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, and Theater 29.
August 2019
Incessant Hum: Beethoven 2020
In 2020, as the world celebrates the 250th anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven's birth, many symphonies, orchestras, and music ensembles are creating programming to pay tribute to the composer's legacy and his contributions to our world. I'm so pleased to announce that the Colorado Chamber Players have commissioned me to write the book for the world premiere of a new music/theatre hybrid in honor of Beethoven.
Directed by Mare Trevathan, INCESSANT HUM will explore the emotional world that Beethoven experienced, as he lost his hearing and his ability to perform as a pianist and conductor.
As a profoundly hard of hearing artist, this collaboration means the world to me, and I hope it will provide audiences with an exciting, dynamic, and unique point of entry into the genius of Beethoven's later works, all of which he wrote when he was deaf.
A Date With Destiny -- Denver, Colorado -- On Sunday, August 4, the lovely folks at One Night Stand honored me, once again, by including my short play A Date With Destiny in their program One Night Stand Presents Law & Disorder.
Directed by Mare Trevathan, INCESSANT HUM will explore the emotional world that Beethoven experienced, as he lost his hearing and his ability to perform as a pianist and conductor.
As a profoundly hard of hearing artist, this collaboration means the world to me, and I hope it will provide audiences with an exciting, dynamic, and unique point of entry into the genius of Beethoven's later works, all of which he wrote when he was deaf.
A Date With Destiny -- Denver, Colorado -- On Sunday, August 4, the lovely folks at One Night Stand honored me, once again, by including my short play A Date With Destiny in their program One Night Stand Presents Law & Disorder.
June 2019
What You Will Nominated for a Colorado Theatre Guild Henry Award
On Monday, June 17, the Colorado Theatre Guild announced nominations for their 14th Annual Henry Awards, which honors outstanding achievements during the past season in Colorado theatre. The awards are named for acclaimed producer Henry Lowenstein and nominations are determined through a judging process conducted by more than 100 statewide peer professionals, academics/educators and other theatre lovers. I'm beyond excited to announce that What You Will has been nominated for "Outstanding New Play," alongside works by Jessica Austgen, Amanda Berg Wilson, Donetta Lavinia Grays, Itamar Moses, and Andrew Rosendorf.
Awards will be presented at a gala on Monday, July 22 at the beautiful Lone Tree Arts Center. For more information about the awards and the gala, click on the photo above, which will bring you to a recent BroadwayWorld.com article about the Henrys.
Awards will be presented at a gala on Monday, July 22 at the beautiful Lone Tree Arts Center. For more information about the awards and the gala, click on the photo above, which will bring you to a recent BroadwayWorld.com article about the Henrys.
Sunday, June 2 was an absolutely wonderful evening at Vintage Theater in Denver, where the lovely folks at One Night Stand Theater presented One Night Stand with Jeffrey Neuman, an evening of my short works, one-acts, and monologues. The anthologized evening tackled all my favorite subjects -- love, sex, and mortality -- in many different ways (drama, comedy, and complete absurdity) and featured some of my plays that've never before been performed in my beloved home state. We played to a sold out house and raised almost $2,000 for The Denver Actors Fund, an organization that means the world to me. Thank you to all the actors and directors who gave their talents to the show and to all of the people who came out to support it. And, a very special thanks to John Moore for all of his hard work at DAF and for his amazing photos of the event.
May 2019
Pen & Podium, Wednesday, May 2:
And, just like that: another season of Pen & Podium comes to a close. We couldn’t have asked for a better way to cap off this amazing year than with an intimate and fascinating lecture from presidential historian Michael Beschloss, who brought such intelligence, insight, humor, and gentlemanly warmth to our stage.
And, just like that: another season of Pen & Podium comes to a close. We couldn’t have asked for a better way to cap off this amazing year than with an intimate and fascinating lecture from presidential historian Michael Beschloss, who brought such intelligence, insight, humor, and gentlemanly warmth to our stage.
March 2019
Denver Center Theatre Company Announces Playwrights' Group Residency
Building upon its 40-year commitment to new-play development, the Denver Center Theatre Company has announced the establishment of The Playwrights' Group to foster the work of Colorado playwrights. I'm so excited to have been invited onboard as one of the four fellows for this exciting inaugural venture. Click on the photo below for a link to an article with full details about the project, its goals, and its aims.
Assisted Living to ENCORE at New American Theatre
Los Angeles, California -- Assisted Living was a tremendous hit during New American Theatre's 2018 festival of new plays that NAT has selected it as one the BEST one act plays from the last ten years and will be remounting it for an encore run from March 10-March 31.
February 2019
Colorado New Play Summit Local Playwrights’ Slam
Building on the success of What You Will, I was asked to represent Benchmark Theatre at the Colorado New Play Summit, where I presented a piece from of a new work-in-progress called (tentatively) Discreet 44. I had the great pleasure of sharing the stage with playwrights from 5280 Artist CoOp, Curious Theatre Company, And Toto too Theatre Company, and Local Theater Company. A special thank you to John Moore for capturing this photo of my "This Is What I Look Like When I Try To Act" face.
Dramaturgy Round Table
On Valentine's Day, Literary Managers and Dramaturgs of the Americas (LMDA) and Denver Center for the Performing Arts partnered for a live (and live-streamed) panel with an all-star group to talk about what dramaturgy looks like in Colorado and how we are working to raise the value of dramaturgy as a community. I was thrilled to have been asked to participate in this panel discussion and learned so much for the amazing group of people with whom I shared the stage.
Building on the success of What You Will, I was asked to represent Benchmark Theatre at the Colorado New Play Summit, where I presented a piece from of a new work-in-progress called (tentatively) Discreet 44. I had the great pleasure of sharing the stage with playwrights from 5280 Artist CoOp, Curious Theatre Company, And Toto too Theatre Company, and Local Theater Company. A special thank you to John Moore for capturing this photo of my "This Is What I Look Like When I Try To Act" face.
Dramaturgy Round Table
On Valentine's Day, Literary Managers and Dramaturgs of the Americas (LMDA) and Denver Center for the Performing Arts partnered for a live (and live-streamed) panel with an all-star group to talk about what dramaturgy looks like in Colorado and how we are working to raise the value of dramaturgy as a community. I was thrilled to have been asked to participate in this panel discussion and learned so much for the amazing group of people with whom I shared the stage.
January 2019
On The Horns of a Dilemma got a little more love in January after some successful runs on both sides of the Atlantic. My little "Play About The Rhino" ran at Over Our Head Player's annual Snowdance Comedy Festival from January 25-February 24 in Racine, Wisconsin. On the tail end of the run (pun sort of intended), I learned that Horns was also named "Best New Comedy" at the TOMY Awards (that's with an "M," not an "N," unfortunately) for its November run in Kilkenny, Ireland at What's On Tom Productions.
