local Theater Embraces Unpredictability with ‘White Rabbit Red Rabbit’
Stage Left Theater is pushing the boundaries of live performance this weekend with “White Rabbit Red Rabbit,” a unique play performed as a cold reading - meaning actors receive the script for the first time onstage, in front of the audience. The production, running this weekend, marks a meaningful departure from traditional theater and a bold step toward interactive, ephemeral experiences.
The play’s unusual format, coupled with its potential for unpredictable audience interaction, is attracting attention from both performers and theatergoers. Stage Left Artistic Director Phil Bullis envisions the show as a watershed moment for the local theater scene, potentially becoming a seasonal production if this weekend’s performances are successful. The production speaks to stage Left’s broader mission of redefining what theater can be, inspiring a new generation to embrace experimentation and challenge conventional formats.
“White rabbit Red Rabbit,” written by Iranian-British playwright Nassim Soleimanpour, intentionally relinquishes directorial control and relies on the immediate connection between actor and audience. Actress Sarah Craven,one of the performers scheduled for this weekend,described the experience as a “movement between the audience and the actor that will never be recreated again.”
The play’s structure involves minimal readiness – no rehearsal, set, or director is required – making it an accessible and efficient production. However,the lack of preparation also introduces an element of risk,as actors navigate the script and audience prompts in real-time. Despite the uncertainty, Anderson expressed confidence that the audience will be engaged with the actors, not against them, and noted the show’s relatively short 90-minute runtime.
Bullis believes the play embodies the core principles of theater as a communal art form.”This art form is designed for people to talk and commune,” he said, “and in hearing about what this production is, I was like ‘This is a representation of everything I believe the craft could be.’ ” He hopes the production will encourage both artists and audiences to explore new possibilities within the theatrical landscape.
Stage Left’s performances of “White Rabbit Red Rabbit” run this weekend. Actors interested in future performances are encouraged to contact the theater, as Bullis anticipates continuing the production seasonally with a rotating cast.
