It’s Only A Premiere If You Say So

Chris Jones of the 'Chicago Tribune' writes about the validity (or lack thereof) of theaters being able to claim the status ‘Premiere’ of a new play, and how, for some, calling them ‘development productions’ might give plays-in-process a second change for a first impression. In particular, is there a different between Steppenwolf’s 'First Look Repertory of New Work' and their evolution with 'August: Osage County'? Read the article here and join the debate.

August Wins Pulitzer

Tracy Letts’ dysfunction-family drama August:Osage County has won the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Arriving on Broadway with its original Steppenwolf cast in tow, the play has all the earmarks of the classical American three-act drama (a mix somehow of Eugene O’Neill and Sam Shepard). It is by far the best play I’ve seen on Broadway since Angels in America back in 1993. Before August becomes a staple of the regional/community theater circuit, make sure you see the original cast. For this and other roles, Amy Morton should be considered one of the best stage actresses in America, and Deanna Dunagan gives a legendary performance. For those who say there are no good parts of women, they can find an additional half dozen from this script. The play closes at the Imperial Theatre on April 20 at 3 PM, and thankfully is transferring to the Music Box for a April 29 opening.