Revolutionizing Theatre: Isabel, a Dark Comedy by Trans Playwright Reid Tang Premieres in New York

The casting for the world premiere of reid tang’s Isabel has been finalized. The play, co-commissioned by NAATCO and Long Wharf Theatre, will take place from June 14 to July 6 at the Abrons Arts Center as part of the @Abrons Series. Kedian Keohan will direct the production, which features a talented cast including Sagan Chen (Work Hard Have Fun Make History), Haruna Lee (Suicide Forest), and Ni-Ni.

Isabel tells the story of Matt, who is renovating an old house in a remote location when two unexpected visitors, Harriet and Isabel, arrive with mysterious news about abandoned staircases in the forest, a backpack named Loaves, and the unsettling screams of mountain lions. The play is a dark comedy with spooky and tender elements, focusing on a complex relationship between trans siblings.

The upcoming production will feature creative contributions from dots (scenic design), Hahnji Jang (costume design), Barbara Samuels (lighting design), Tei Blow (sound design), Jeremy Kadetsky (associate sound design), and Addison Heeren (prop design). Nat Kelley DiMario will be the production stage manager, supported by Mars Neri as assistant manager and Libby J’Vera as production manager. Casting for the play was done by tbd casting co.

NAATCO Creative Producer Peter Kim expressed excitement about the production, highlighting reid tang’s unique voice and the diverse team of trans theatre makers involved in bringing Isabel to life. Tickets for the show can be purchased on the NAATCO website.