THE CULT PLAY Opens At NYC's Phoenix Theatre Ensemble

Phoenix Theatre Ensemble announces the world premiere of Topher Cusumano's (pictured) The Cult Play will begin previews on January 27 and will play through February 17 at The Paradise Factory Theatre at 64 East 4th Street (next door to La Mama) in NYC.

The Cult Play follows Mama Pearl, an enigmatic woman with alleged powers and leader of a secretive Goddess worshiping religious group, The Soul Scouts. As Mama attempts to retain control of her followers after the defection of a longtime member, the Scouts each find themselves exploring the boundaries of their faith. When Mae, a rebellious new recruit, introduces The Soul Scouts to social media, she inadvertently triggers a series of events that could end Mama Pearl's great vision of the future.

Producing Artistic Director Craig Smith states "We have worked with Topher on development of this play over the last two years in PTE's new works program. It is gratifying to launch this remarkable play on the next level of its development and life. "

Irene Lazaridis directs the 8-member cast headed by Lori Parquet as Mama Pearl with Layan Elwazaini, Ariel Estrada, Oscar Klausner, John Lenartz, Josh Moser, Stacey Raymond, and Elise Stone. The directing and design team includes Aiden Dreskin, sound design, Attilio Rigotti, projection and video design, Debbi Hobson, costume design, JB Douglas, environmental design, Kevin McGuire, fight director, Madelyn Sher, choreography, Mason Delman, light design, Yeritza Madera, Production intern, and Meghan McVann is production stage manager.

Information: http://www.phoenixtheatreensemble.org/; 212-465-3446. Tickets are $25.00; Call 212-352-3101 or visit www.PhoenixTheatreEnsemble.org. The Paradise Factory @ 64 East 4th Street Street (Bowery & 2nd Avenue)

Transportation: By Subway: 4,5,6 Train to Astor Place; F train to 2nd Avenue; N & R Train at Broadway & 8th Street. Bus 3rd Ave M103 to 4th Street; 2nd Ave M15 to 4th Street

Phoenix Theatre Ensemble is a non-profit theatre company now in its 14th season of presenting new and classical works. The 2017-18 season includes American Moor by Keith Hamilton Cobb (July/August @ Boston Center for the Arts); Tartuffe by Moliere (October/November in NYC), The Cult Play, world premiere of a serialized drama by Topher Cusumano (January/February in NYC); and a play to be announced (April/May in NYC). The reading series for 2017-18 will be rarely performed plays by Pirandello. www.PhoenixTheatreEnsemble.org