By SDCN Editor
San Diego, CA–Cygnet Theatre returns to in-person performances after all productions were halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The first production in the lineup is the Tony award-winning musical “La Cage Aux Folles” with book by Harvey Fierstein and lyrics and music by Jerry Herman. The production is directed by Artistic Director Sean Murray and takes place September 10 to October 24 at the theatre in Old Town.
“I can’t even begin to describe how elated we are to return to in-person performances,” says director Sean Murray. “After nearly a year and a half, we’re turning on the lights and dusting off the set that has been patiently waiting for actors and audiences to return. And this show, with its message of hope, love, and redemption is the perfect way to joyously return to the art we all love.” He continues, “I’m equally excited about the rest of the season. The artistic team has come up with a selection of plays and musicals that not only inspire and entertain, but also reflect the work our company has done to ensure our space is more inclusive, equitable, and accessible.”
After “La Cage Aux Folles,” Cygnet’s 2021-22 season continues with the holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol,” directed by Sean Murray and running from Nov. 23 to December 26.
The new year 2022 kicks off with the regional premiere of Life Sucks,” a hilarious take on Anton Chekov’s “Uncle Vanya,” filled with lust, friendship, and unrequited love. Written by playwright Aaron Posner (Cygnet’s Stupid F**king Bird) and directed by Associate Artistic Director Rob Lutfy (Cygnet’s The Great Leap), the production runs from January 26 to February 27, 2022.
The Pulitzer Prize-winning “Water by the Spoonful” by Quiara Alegría Hudes (In the Heights, Miss You Like Hell) and directed by Meg DeBoard (The Old Globe, 2021 Classical Directing Fellow; Point Loma Nazarene University Director of Theatre) hits the stage in the spring. This fearless and groundbreaking drama is a healing and heartfelt meditation on lives on the brink of redemption. The production runs from March 23 to April 24, 2022.
The penultimate production of the season is “Mud Row,” a story of two generations of sisters navigating class, race, love, and family. Tony Award nominee Dominique Morisseau deftly shifts between past and present to paint a living portrait of a family legacy. The show is directed by Delicia Turner Sonnenberg (Cygnet’s The Piano Lesson) from May 18 to June 19, 2022.
The season goes out with a bang with the west coast premiere of “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812” with book, lyrics, and music by Obie Award-winning playwright Dave Malloy and adapted from “War and Peace” by Leo Tolstoy. This electro-pop opera will be directed by Artistic Director Sean Murray and runs March 23 to April 24, 2022.
In advance of reopening, Cygnet Theatre has worked to ensure a safe return for patrons, including an overhaul of its air ventilation systems to increase fresh air exchange, enhanced cleaning and sanitation measures, digital ticketing and program options, and concessions and restroom accommodations. Mask protocols will evolve in accordance with state and local guidelines and will be updated prior to in-person performances. Cygnet is also offering no-questions-asked ticket exchanges.
“While Cygnet Theatre is over the moon to welcome audiences back with open arms, we are also prioritizing the health and safety of our patrons, staff and artists,”says Executive Director Bill Schmidt. “We are so honored to have had their steadfast support through this difficult time, and we are committed to ensuring a confident return to our space.”
Tickets for “La Cage Aux Folles” are on sale now and start at $20 for preview performances. Season subscriptions will be available for sale on July 21. Three show packages start at $60 for preview performances. Single tickets on-sale dates for “A Christmas Carol,” “Life Sucks,” “Water by the Spoonful,” “Mud Row,” and “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812” will be announced at a later date.
Subscribers to Cygnet Theatre’s cancelled 2020-21 season will be contacted by the box office to confirm their new selections.
Tickets may be purchased in person at the box office located at 4040 Twiggs Street in San Diego Old Town Historic State Park, by calling (619) 337-1525 or by visiting www.cygnettheatre.com. Group and child discounts are available.
