New Jersey Stage 2016: Issue 12 | Page 106

THE CAST Mia Barry Becca Blackwell NJ STAGE 2016 - ISSUE 12 In George’s play, Dionysys (as Diane) is on a mission to get his cult started up again while the people are vulnerable due to climate change. Unfortunately, he encounters unexpected resistance from the community. George, the Playwright In Residence at Two River Theater, was interested in how the communities along the coast had been resilient in the face of Hurricane Sandy. While her play isn’t based on that storm, it is inspired by the memory of what took place in the storm’s aftermath. “In a way, it’s a love letter to communities who come together and take care of each other after catastrophes of all kinds,” explained George. In the spirit of The Bacchae, this play is a wild comedy as well. Directed by Leigh Silverman, a two-time Obie winner, the cast includes Mia Barron, Becca Blackwell, Nikiya Mathis, Danielle Skraastad, and Kate Wetherhead. George laughs when the idea of a play about climate change opening INDEX NEXT ARTICLE 106