In association with Young Audiences New York, The Whiting presents The American Place Theatre’s Literature to Life® stage presentation of The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz
Performed by Elvis Nolasco
Adapted and Directed by Elise Thoron
Ticket Prices: All Seats - $30
Student Rush Tickets: For $12 each, students age 16 and older with valid student ID can purchase tickets to the best seats available on the day of the performance. Availability is not guaranteed as some performances may sell out. Limit 2 per student.
Running Time: 90 min. (15 min. pre-show discussion, 1 hr performance, 15 min post-show discussion)
This Literature to Life® presentation features the delicately brutal words of Junot Díaz, author of The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao. In this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel we chronicle the life of Oscar de Leon. An overweight Dominican boy growing up in Paterson, New Jersey, Oscar is obsessed with science fiction and fantasy novels, falling in love, and the curse that has plagued his family for generations. The family fukú, or curse, declares its power throughout our story, and finally becomes real for Oscar after receiving a near-death beating. We come to understand the culture of fear and violence that has resulted from Trujillo’s 30+ year dictatorship of the Dominican Republic, and the importance of facing fear with love. Perhaps those least expected will be your saving grace.
This presentation includes a 15 minute pre-show interactive discussion, a one hour performance, and is followed by a 15 minute post-show discussion.
Educational outreach programs will take place during this residency.
All seating will be on stage for an intimate theatrical experience.
