ARGUMENTS! at The Zephyr Theatre

ARGUMENTS! (Or, A Play For Smokers) is a one-act dark comedy written and directed by Evelyn-Claire Smith that follows the rise and fall of a relationship while asking whether the role of a muse is inherently submissive. Set in a brick-walled apartment in Hell's Kitchen, New York City, the play centers on Alex (Charlie Bauer), who is deeply in love with his partner, the ambitious and artistic Alma (Nikki Marie), as they navigate intimacy, addiction, ambition, and sacrifice over five acts. Two musicians, Spurgeon Rice on keys and Aric Kline on trumpet, remain onstage throughout, performing a live-improvised score that embodies the characters' inner thoughts and emotions. The production features lighting design by Devin Harris and assistant direction by Mina Kess.