Apples & Oranges
By Alfred Uhry, adapted from the memoir by Marie Brennar
Directed by Lynne Meadow
Originally produced at Alliance Theatre, Atlanta, GA.
October 5, 2012 through October 28, 2012
(Photo by Greg Mooney. Pictured: Patricia Richardson and Tony Carlin.)
About the Premiere Production
Adapted from Marie Brennar’s memoir of the real-life relationship between her and her brother, Apples & Oranges has all the hallmarks of Uhry’s past works – emotionally vulnerable characters at odds with one another and trying desperately (and failing beautifully) to hide their need of (and from) one another. At core, this is a story of a brother and a sister who have grown far apart – ideologically, emotionally, politically and literally. They each embrace a Jewish identity that has nothing to do with the other siblings’ cultural definition. But when Carl surprises Marie with the news that he may be dying, she is determined to close the gap. Carl’s not so sure – and it’s the dance toward a possible reconciliation – and the ticking clock of whether it will happen in time – that drives the story.
Artistic Statement
Apples & Oranges allows the Alliance Theatre to premiere a new work from Alfred Uhry, Atlanta’s most storied playwright, and whose work has a particular emotional resonance and a strong track record with Atlanta audiences. This play is a gorgeous and hugely moving piece for two actors that is intended to be a minimally designed show, making it a viable production for theatres of all sizes, operating within various economic parameters. It is a showcase for actors telling an amazing story on stage, and will attract a wide range of talented artists who want to make these characters their own. Alfred Uhry is a playwright of national and international prominence whose works are continuously produced. His insights into relationships are universally recognized as authentic and profound, as well as highly entertaining. The Alliance Theatre is confident that Apples & Oranges, like Uhry’s other plays, will become a beloved addition to the body of contemporary American theatrical literature.
Grant Statement
This grant allows the Alliance to extend the rehearsal period for Alfred Uhry’s Apples & Oranges, from the budgeted three week process to four weeks. This extra week of rehearsal will not only provide essential time for the creative team, including the director and actors, to collaborate in person with the playwright, but also will allow the play more time to settle into Atlanta after the rehearsal period in New York.
Director: Lynne Meadow
Set Design: Michael Yeargan
Lighting Design: Pete Shinn
Sound Design: Kendall Simpson
Costume Design: Wade Laboissonniere
Cast: Tony Carlin, Patricia Richardson
Additional Funding: Apples & Oranges is part of the Turner Series on the Hertz Stage. Additional funders include: Delta Air Lines – Official Airline of the Alliance Theatre; Marriott Residence Inn – Official Hotel of the Alliance Theatre; The Home Depot – Set Construction Sponsor of the Alliance Theatre. Apples & Oranges was made possible with grants from the City of Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs, the Fulton County Arts Council, the Georgia Council for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.
News
Theater review: “Apples & Oranges”
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
October 12, 2012
Alfred Uhry explores contentious sibling relationship in world premiere of ‘Apples & Oranges’
AccessAtlanta.com
October 6, 2012
Uhry Commissioned for ‘Apples & Oranges’
The New York Times
June 9, 2009