Red Bull Theater and The Public Theater are bringing “How Shakespeare Saved My Life,” a one-man theatrical production written and performed by Jacob Ming-Trent, to New York audiences this fall.
Directed by Tony Taccone, the production will have its New York premiere at The Public Theater’s Shiva Theater. Performances began with a Joseph Papp Free Performance on September 15, with the production now extended through October 25. The official press opening is scheduled for September 27.
Following acclaimed productions at Berkeley Repertory Theatre and Folger Theatre in Washington, D.C., the New York engagement brings Ming-Trent’s deeply personal story to the artistic home that has played an important role in his career.
In How Shakespeare Saved My Life, Ming-Trent explores his childhood, his struggles with identity and belonging, and the experiences that helped shape him as an artist. The production combines Shakespeare with poetry, music, hip-hop and reflections on the people and cultural influences that helped him find his voice.
The performance follows Ming-Trent as he revisits the challenges of his youth and his search for a place where his talents and creativity could flourish. Through humor, tragedy and storytelling, the production examines the transformative power of language and the role that art can play in helping people reclaim their stories.
The production features scenic design by Takeshi Kata, costume design by Danielle Preston, lighting design by Alan Edwards, original music and sound design by Jake Rodriguez, projection design by Alexander Nichols and movement direction by Tiffany Rachelle Stewart. Kara Kaufman serves as production stage manager, with Mary Kate Baughman as stage manager.
The New York production is a co-production with Berkeley Repertory Theatre and Folger Theatre. Red Bull Theater’s involvement continues its commitment to bringing classical works and contemporary perspectives together while creating opportunities for artists to connect with new audiences.
The engagement is part of The Public Theater’s larger fall season, which will also feature Good Time Charlie, a new play by Ryan J. Haddad directed by Danny Sharron; the North American premiere of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button; Richard Nelson’s We’ll See; and Fiasco Theater’s production of Susan Glaspell’s The Verge, directed by Jessie Austrian.
The Public Theater will also open The Astor, a new downtown tavern located inside the theater, this fall.
How Shakespeare Saved My Life continues through October 25 at The Public Theater’s Shiva Theater in New York.