Acclaimed African American playwright Terry Guest’s “Oak” is debuting on the Phoenix Theatre Cultural Centre’s stage later this month.
Making its highly anticipated Indiana debut as part of the National New Play Network Rolling World Premiere, “Oak” takes the stage at the Phoenix Theatre May 22-June 8. Directed by Mikael Burke, “Oak” is described as a “bold, poetic and darkly comedic exploration of legacy, grief and the supernatural,” according to a press release.
Set against the backdrop of Rome, Georgia, “Oak” is a Southern Gothic horror story. The story highlights the complexities of inheritance and unearths the “haunted truths” hidden within the roots of a family, involving three children, an old woman with a shotgun and a mysterious creek monster.
PsyWrn Simone, Jadah Rowan, Tracy Nakigozi and Joshua Short make up the cast of “Oak,” bringing the complex story to life onstage alongside a design team featuring Robert Koharchik (set design), Anthony James Sirk (costume design), Laura Glover (lighting design), Brian Grimm (sound design) and Kristin Renee Boyd (prop design).
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Burke returns to Indianapolis to direct the play, alongside assistant director Paige Elisse and stage manager Danielle Buckle Klein, marking a monumental reunion for Guest and the Phoenix Theatre, who collaborated in the world premiere of “The Magnolia Ballet” in 2022.
During the show’s run, the Phoenix Theatre Cultural Centre will present a multidisciplinary art installation in the Michael O’Brien Gallery from May 23-June 13. Entitled “Where the Roots Reach Water,” the exhibition aims to add another layer to the theater experience, complementing themes in seen in “Oak” through sculpture, soundscape and design.
Described as “a living installation of root and spirit,” the exhibition offers audiences a tangible connection to the world of Oak, according to a press release.
“Oak” is onstage at the Phoenix Theatre Cultural Center, 705 N. Illinois St., May 22-June 8. The show is approximately 90 minutes and features mature themes. Tickets are $20-$24 and can be purchased online or by calling the box office at 317-635-7529. An ASL interpreted performance will take place on June 1.
For more information or to view a full performance schedule, visit phoenixtheatre.org.
Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx.
Chloe McGowan is the Arts & Culture Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper. Originally from Columbus, OH, Chloe graduated with a degree in journalism from The Ohio State University. She is a former IndyStar Pulliam Fellow, and her previous work includes freelancing for Indy Maven, Assistant Arts & Life Editor for The Lantern, and editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Chloe enjoys covering all things arts and culture — from local music, visual art, dance, theater and film, as well as minority-owned businesses. In her free time, Chloe enjoys reading, cooking and keeping her plants alive.
