The Public Theater is bringing Susanna Kaysen's memoir 'Girl, Interrupted' to the stage with a new adaptation featuring a book by Martyna Majok, music by Aimee Mann, and choreography by Sonya Tayeh, directed by Jo Bonney.
From Memoir to Stage
Originally published in 1993, Kaysen's 'Girl, Interrupted' recounts her experience at McLean Hospital in the late 1960s after a suicide attempt. The memoir was adapted into a 1999 film starring Winona Ryder and Angelina Jolie. Now, it returns as a theatrical production at The Public Theater.
Playwright Martyna Majok expressed her admiration for Kaysen's work, stating, "I fell for [Kaysen’s] voice, her dry wit and clear-eyed perspective, her humor and heartache."
Dynamic Cast and Creative Team
The play stars Juliana Canfield as Susanna and musician King Princess as Lisa. The ensemble includes Ta’Rea Campbell, Gabi Campo, Mia Pak, Katherine Reis, Sally Shaw, Emily Skinner, Lauren Jeanne Thomas, and Manoel Feliciano. Canfield, a fan of the film, described Ryder’s performance as "grittier and darker," adding depth to her own portrayal.
King Princess tackles her first acting role involving singing and prepares for Lisa’s character by reading Patric Gagne’s 'Sociopath: A Memoir'.
Exploring Complex Themes
The production is not a traditional musical, but its songs underscore the characters' emotional journeys. The cast, guided by intimacy coordinator Ann James, navigates the heavy themes of mental illness and recovery, with the music exploring underexplored aspects of the human psyche.
Engagement and Relevance
Mia Pak, playing Susanna’s roommate Grace, highlights the importance of sharing these narratives. "I’m sure people are going to relate to them," she says, emphasizing the show's potential impact on audiences.
'Girl, Interrupted' begins previews on May 13, with opening night set for June 4 at The Public Theater.
Source: https://www.vogue.com/article/girl-interrupted-preview-public-theater
