As live, in-person theatre returns to the greatest city in the world, we're spotlighting the NYC theatre artists who make it all happen. Today's spotlight is on Edward Einhorn, Artistic Director of Untitled Theater Company #61 and director/playwright of the upcoming live show Alma Baya.
What do you do in the theatre world?
I write, direct, and produce. Sometimes I act. Also… various and sundry other theater jobs.
What’s one part of your job that might surprise people?
I think people sort of know what’s involved in producing, but honestly unless you’ve done it, it’s hard to comprehend all that’s involved. Over the last winter I did a theater simulation game over Zoom called Poor Players, in which participants role-played being an indie theater producer. Even longtime collaborators found it eye-opening.
What was the last live production you worked on before the theatre shutdown?
Doctors Jane and Alexander, an autobiographical play at HERE. It was produced in February 2020.
What was your quarantine hobby?
My wife and I got really into board games, especially one called Gloomhaven.
What was your first show back?
The first show was an outdoor production called Cabaret in Captivity, songs and sketches written in the Terezin concentration camp. It was in commemoration of Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day.
What show are you working on now?
An original absurdist sci-fi drama called Alma Baya, playing at the A.R.T./New York Theatres.
What would you tell people to encourage them to come see it?
I am particularly proud of the script, it won various accolades (it was a finalist for the O’Neill’s and a selection of The Great Plain Conference). It’s a tight 75 minutes or so, tension filled but comedic. The show uses only three women, but we have two casts, partially as a caution against COVID. Each has their own style and character: Cast B is darker and dramatic; Cast A is more comedic but still brings home the drama in its own way.
What’s a new or returning show you’re not involved with that you’re excited to see?
Pass Over. From what I’ve heard, it shares my sensibilities, mixing contemporary ideas in with an absurdist landscape.
What aspect of your job are you most excited to get back into?
Being in the rehearsal room with actors is the happiest place in the world for me.
Alma Baya runs August 13-28 at A.R.T./New York’s Jeffrey and Paula Gural Theatre (502 West 53rd Street at 10th Avenue). The show will also be available via live stream on August 14 & 15. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.untitledtheater.com/previous-productions/alma-baya.
