Coronado Playhouse is announcing its latest production, “Exit, Pursued by a Bear,” a dark revenge comedy, by celebrated playwright Lauren Gunderson.
The show will be directed by Kira Blaskovich, marking her second directorial project at Coronado Playhouse following her successful direction of “Ripcord” last year.
All performances will be held at Coronado Playhouse from Aug. 16 – Sept. 8.
“Exit, Pursued by a Bear” dives deep into themes of recognition, education and forgiveness, all wrapped in a comedic yet thought-provoking narrative.
“Last year, I chose to direct ‘Ripcord’ because it was a story of people who seemed vastly different finding common ground and a deep understanding of each other,” Blaskovich said. “This play takes that theme and expands it. At its core, it is about how we can see each other through the lens of empathy, even when so much baggage is piled up between us.”
About the play
Inspired by one of the most famous stage directions in theatre from William Shakespeare’s “A Winter’s Tale,” where a character exits the stage “pursued by a bear,” Gunderson’s play takes this absurd and bizarre direction and weaves it into a story full of wild and beautiful characters.
The plot centers around Nan, who ties up her abusive husband, surrounds him with honey and meat, and hopes bears will come to remove him from her life. With the support of her gay best friend dressed in a cheerleader costume and a stripper friend who introduces her to Shakespeare, the play navigates between humor and shocking twists seamlessly.
About the director
Blaskovich, an award-winning actor and director with over 25 years in the performing arts, brings a wealth of experience to this production. Having performed in Coronado Playhouse’s productions of “Clue,” “The Old Man in the Old Moon,” and “Macbeth,” all directed by Desha Crownover, Blaskovich is no stranger to the stage. Her impressive directing credits in San Diego include “Witness for the Prosecution” and “Anything Goes.”
“This play inspires its characters toward self-examination and hope – hope that, by making different choices, we can acknowledge our mistakes, forgive ourselves and each other, and move on to a brighter future. Hopefully, before we get eaten by bears – cause they’re out there, y’all!” Blaskovich adds.
Performances will take place at Coronado Playhouse from Aug. 16-Sept. 8 Thursdays-Saturdays at 8 p.m. There will be matinee performances at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Note: This play contains strong language and themes that may be inappropriate for younger and sensitive audience members.
Information courtesy of Coronado Playhouse.
