A New Theater for a New Era

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A New Theater for a New Era

As we are slowly, slowly emerging from the shroud placed over us by the pandemic, it is clear that new ways of living, behaving, and doing business are here to stay. Although we are all itching to get back to seeing live performance, it just may be that producing quality entertainment consumed through a laptop or phone will be an additional option.  Why not do both? The most compelling reason to provide virtual performance is that people everywhere can see a show without getting on a plane, booking a hotel, or driving into the city, parking, and paying a babysitter. It’s a safe and credible way to move forward in our new world.

Born out of the pandemic, a brand-new theatre company has launched, and for now, their entire focus is creating a season that will provide performances online.

The goal of New Normal Rep (great name!) is to produce plays that focus on the forces that have shaped life in America in the 21st century, with a strong emphasis on diversity.

One of the founders and board members of New Normal Rep is prolific stage actress Jill Eikenberry, so well-remembered for her role in the iconic television show, LA Law. Jill will star in Jericho, written by artistic director Jack Canfora, the piece that will launch the company and the season. It is directed by Marsha Mason.

Jericho will stream from March 4 to April 4.

To find out about Jericho, and the entire New Normal Rep season, go to
https://www.newnormalrep.org/2021season

And you can hear my interview with Jill Eikenberry this Sunday on “Bagels and Broadway” between 2 and 3 PM ET on WNYM-AM Radio. Available on podcast after the broadcast.

Author

  • Valerie Smaldone

    Five-time Billboard Award-winning media personality Valerie Smaldone is a theatre, food, lifestyle and entertainment enthusiast. She is a celebrity interviewer, accomplished voice-over artist and actress. Recent appearances on episodic tv include Law and Order, Criminal Intent, The Other Two (on HBO Max), Tommy, Manifest and Blue Bloods. She is an audiobook narrator and producer. A live event emcee, moderator, and "Voice of God" at events and award ceremonies, Valerie has just directed and produced her first film featuring Gloria Gaynor and is producing a docu-series starring Erik Estrada. Visit her website at www.valeriesmaldone.com

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