Breaking: Catharsis Theatre Collective Debuts with Award-Winning Play on Mental Health

The Catharsis Theatre Collective, a Los Angeles-based performing arts entity, is set to launch its inaugural season with the critically acclaimed play “Red Light Winter” by Adam Rapp. This production marks a significant milestone for the collective, which is dedicated to exploring mental health journeys through live theatre. The play, a 2005 Pulitzer Prize for Drama finalist, delves into complex themes of sadness, loneliness, and human connection.

Founded by actor and producer Ryan Lisman, Catharsis Theatre Collective has previously produced works for the Hollywood Fringe Festival. Lisman emphasizes the collective’s mission to share theatrical stories that honor and uplift the complexity of mental health journeys. He explains, “We chose ‘Red Light Winter’ due to its authentic and unrestrained display of sadness, loneliness, and the immense power that each of us holds to drastically impact another’s life.”

The Story and Its Relevance

“Red Light Winter” follows the story of two former college buddies, Matt and Davis, who escape their lives in Manhattan and travel to the Netherlands. There, they find themselves entangled in a bizarre love triangle with a young prostitute named Christina. The romance they encounter in Europe is eventually overshadowed by the harsh truths they face upon returning home. The play encourages a stronger awareness of how we treat others, examining when and why we choose to be kind, even to perfect strangers.

Directed by Billy Ray Brewton, known for his award-winning Hollywood Fringe shows “A Beast/A Burden” (2018) and “Son of a Bitch” (2019), the production promises to be a compelling exploration of human emotions and relationships. Brewton’s previous experience with “Red Light Winter” in 2008 adds a layer of depth to his direction, making this production highly anticipated.

The Cast and Crew

In addition to Ryan Lisman, who will be stepping into the role of Matt, the cast includes Trent Culkin, a Los Angeles-based model and actor known for his work in the Twenty One Pilots “My Blood” music video, and Natalie Valentine, a recent graduate from London’s Royal Welsh School of Music and Drama. The production team is rounded out by Jesse O’Freel and Eric Warwick as Assistant Directors, James Carter Montgomery as Stage Manager, and Abigail Swoap as Intimacy Coordinator.

Playwright Adam Rapp is an award-winning playwright and director, known for numerous works including “Nocturne,” “Faster,” “Animals & Plants,” “Finer Noble Gases,” “Stone Cold Dead Serious,” “Blackbird,” “Gompers,” “Essential Self-Defense,” “American Sligo,” “Bingo with the Indians,” “Kindness,” “The Metal Children,” “The Hallway Trilogy,” “The Edge of Our Bodies,” “Dreams of Flying Dreams of Falling,” “Wolf in the River,” “The Purple Lights of Joppa Illinois,” and “Red Light Winter.” His accolades include Chicago’s Jeff Award for Best New Work, an OBIE, and a finalist position for the 2006 Pulitzer Prize.

Performance Details

“Red Light Winter” will be performed at The Broadwater Black Box from September 20-22 and 27-29, with shows on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:30 pm. The production will then move to The Zephyr Theatre for an extended run from October 3-6 and 10-13, with performances on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:30 pm. Tickets are priced at $25 for general admission, with a $35 option for those who wish to offer additional support to the production.

*Trigger Warning:* This production contains full frontal nudity, simulated drug use, simulated sexual violence, and strong language. Viewer discretion is advised.

Tickets go on sale on August 19 and can be purchased at www.catharsistheatrecollective.org.

Our Advice on the City

For those visiting Los Angeles to catch “Red Light Winter,” we recommend taking some time to explore the city’s vibrant arts scene. The Broadwater Black Box and The Zephyr Theatre are located in the heart of Hollywood, an area rich with cultural landmarks and entertainment options.

For occasional travelers, consider visiting the Hollywood Walk of Fame or taking a tour of the historic TCL Chinese Theatre. These iconic sites offer a glimpse into the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s storied past.

For expert travelers, delve deeper into the city’s lesser-known gems. Explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) or the Getty Center for a taste of world-class art and architecture. Additionally, the Griffith Observatory offers stunning views of the city and the stars, providing a serene escape from the bustling streets below.

In conclusion, the Catharsis Theatre Collective’s production of “Red Light Winter” is a must-see for theatre enthusiasts and those interested in thought-provoking narratives about mental health and human connection. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Los Angeles offers a wealth of experiences to complement your theatre outing, making it a memorable trip for all.