The theater world is abuzz with a new play that's got everyone talking. A tale of dreams, drama, and a diva gone wild!
Matthew Lombardo, a renowned playwright, has penned a comedy inspired by a real-life debacle involving Faye Dunaway. But here's where it gets controversial... Lombardo's new play, "When Playwrights Kill," is a hilarious take on the events that led to the downfall of his previous production, "Tea at Five."
"Tea at Five" was a play that showcased the life of Katherine Hepburn, with Faye Dunaway in the lead role. The production faced an untimely end when Dunaway's behavior became, well, let's just say, unpredictable. Lombardo describes it as a "heartbreaking" experience, but one that eventually inspired his new comedic masterpiece.
"When Playwrights Kill" tells the story of an aspiring playwright whose Broadway aspirations are shattered when a notorious diva's antics ruin the play's tryout in Boston. Sound familiar? It's a tale of passion, obsession, and the lengths one might go to for their art. And this is the part most people miss: it's a love letter to theater folks, a celebration of their dedication and the absurdities they face.
The play will premiere at the Huntington Theatre this spring, a fitting choice given the theater's previous association with the "Tea at Five" production. The cast includes some big names, like Tony Award winners Beth Leavel and Matt Doyle, adding to the excitement surrounding the show.
Lombardo, with his Broadway credits including "High" and "Looped," has a unique perspective on the theater industry. He reworked the "Tea at 5" script to focus on Hepburn's later years, and the result is a hilarious farce that explores the thin line between passion and madness.
But here's the twist: Lombardo assures us that "When Playwrights Kill" is not a mere reenactment of the "Tea at Five" incident. It's a creative interpretation, with the playwright character contemplating murder due to his leading lady's antics. A thought-provoking question arises: In the world of theater, where passion runs deep, are such extreme reactions ever justified?
As Lombardo puts it, "I'm not gonna lie, there were moments with Faye where I wanted to wring her neck, but we got along well for the most part." He leaves us with a thought-provoking statement: "Anyone is capable of anything to get their play to Broadway."
So, what do you think? Is Lombardo's new play a brilliant comedic take on a difficult situation, or does it cross a line? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
