The Evolution of La Jolla Playhouse's DNA
The La Jolla Playhouse is gearing up for a significant milestone: the 13th annual DNA New Work Series, now under the guidance of a new artistic director. This series, a platform for showcasing raw, unfiltered creativity, has become a cornerstone of the Playhouse's commitment to fostering emerging talent.
A New Era for Artistic Exploration
The DNA New Work Series, born in 2013 under the leadership of Christopher Ashley, has always been about pushing boundaries and nurturing the creative process. With the recent appointment of Jessica Stone as artistic director, the series is poised for a fresh chapter. Stone, a renowned stage director, brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the role, promising to continue the Playhouse's legacy of innovation.
Stripped-Down Theater, Unfiltered Creativity
What sets the DNA New Work Series apart is its raw, intimate nature. Actors perform with scripts in hand, devoid of elaborate sets or costumes. This stripped-down approach allows the audience to engage with the writers' vision at its most vulnerable and authentic stage. It's a rare opportunity to witness the birth of a play, free from the constraints of full production.
Curating the Creative Journey
Gabriel Greene, the curator and producer of the series, has a clear vision. The DNA New Work Series is about matching the right resources with the right projects, fostering relationships with artists, and inviting audiences to be part of the play development process. It's a delicate balance, ensuring that plays receive the support they need without getting stuck in what Greene calls 'development hell.'
A Competitive Selection Process
The Playhouse receives a staggering number of submissions each year, with around 500 projects vying for a spot. This year's selection includes four diverse plays, each offering a unique perspective on human relationships.
- 'Rockville' delves into the tentative friendship between two isolated individuals, exploring themes of loneliness and connection.
- 'Mother's Day' follows a woman's journey towards motherhood, tackling reproductive issues.
- 'Artney Jackson' provides an intense look at workplace politics and personal growth.
- 'Evil Diva' presents a transformative tale of a woman becoming a monster, perhaps a metaphor for societal pressures.
Themes of Intimacy and Anxiety
Greene astutely observes that these plays share a common thread, exploring one-on-one relationships with depth and nuance. What's fascinating is how they each tackle different forms of anxiety—from loneliness to reproductive concerns and workplace issues. This focus on intimate relationships and the anxieties they can induce is a powerful reflection of our times.
Timing and Transition
The series has moved from its traditional December slot to May, a strategic shift to accommodate artists and audiences during the busy holiday season. This change also allows for better season programming. However, the most significant transition is the leadership change, with Stone bringing her passion and vision to the Playhouse.
A Legacy of Launching Success
The DNA New Work Series has been a launchpad for numerous successful productions, including 'All the Men Who've Frightened Me' and Pulitzer Prize-winning 'The Who & The What.' This year's selections could very well be the next big hits, with 'Rockville' and 'Mother's Day' taking center stage in May.
Final Thoughts
The DNA New Work Series is more than just a showcase; it's a testament to the Playhouse's dedication to nurturing artistic growth. With a new artistic director at the helm, the series is set to evolve, continuing to surprise and delight audiences with its raw, unfiltered creativity. Personally, I find this approach to theater refreshing, as it allows us to witness the creative process in its purest form. It's a rare glimpse behind the curtain, where ideas are born and stories take shape. The Playhouse's commitment to supporting emerging talent is commendable, and I eagerly anticipate the future of this series under Stone's visionary leadership.
