Maryland Ensemble Theatre Presents THE PILLOWMAN

Maryland Ensemble Theatre (MET)presents a startling thriller that centers on an author accused of perpetrating the very acts depicted in his murderous short stories. Written by award-winning playwright and screenwriter Martin McDonagh (author of The Lieutenant of Inishmore, In Bruges, and the recent Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri), The Pillowman is a pitch black comedy that is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Director Peter Wray calls the play "spellbinding" and shares, "McDonagh has a gift for mesmerizing storytelling balanced on a razor's edge of dazzling character relationships. He weaves grim tales with unexpected twists that are both hysterical and diabolical while they capture and enthrall our adult imaginations. I look forward to sharing this darkly humorous masterpiece with MET audiences."

Peter Wray leads a production team that includes MET Ensemble members Tom Majarov as sound designer and Doug Grove as props designer, along with set designer Todd Mazzie, costume design by Jennifer Adams, and Steve Knapp on lighting design.

The cast bringing McDonagh's language to life includes MET Ensemble members JD Sivert as Tupolski, Steve Custer as Katurian, Caitlyn Joy as Mother, and Karli Cole as Child (boy/girl), along with other audience and MET favorites: Joe Jalette as Ariel, Sean Byrne as Michal, and Ron Ward as Father.

The Pillowman opens on Friday, February 16 and runs through March 11, every Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; with 8 p.m. performances on Thursdays, March 1st and 8th and Sundays at 3 p.m. beginning February 25th. Tickets continue under our special 20th Season Celebration pricing of $20. Tickets may be purchased by phone at (301) 694-4744, online at marylandensemble.org or in person at the MET box office. Note: Adult content, language, violence. Not recommended for those under 17.

Photo: Joe Jalette, Steve Custer; photo by: Madeline Reinhold