The Semitic Root’s world premiere of The Strangest, an immersive murder mystery show inspired by the unnamed Arab killed in Albert Camus’ celebrated novel, The Stranger, will begin previews March 12 prior to an official opening March 15 at the Fourth Street Theatre in Manhattan. Written by Betty Shamieh, The Strangest invites audiences to enter a traditional Arab storytelling café.
The Off-Broadway engagement, directed by May Adrales, is scheduled to run through April 1 at the Fourth Street, located at 83 East Fourth Street, between Bowery and Second Avenue.
“The Strangest invites audiences into an immersive theatrical experience in which they enter a traditional Arab storytelling café, where for centuries masters of the oral tradition wove tales of intrigue,” read production notes for the show. “Experience French Algiers on the brink of revolution, and witness three Arab brothers vie for the love of the same woman. Their bitter rivalry ends only when one is gunned down by a French stranger.”
The cast includes Jacqueline Antaramian (Homeland), Andrew Guilarte (The Invisible Hand), Juri Henly-Cohn (Inventing Avi), Roxanna Hope Radja (Frost/Nixon), Alok Tewari (The Band’s Visit), and Brendan Titley (MacBeth).
Scenic design is by Daniel Zimmerman, with costumes by Becky Bodurtha, lighting by Aaron Porter, and new music and sound design by Nathan A. Roberts and Charles Coes. Jay Sterkel will serve as the production manager, Megan Sprowls as the stage manager, Allison Bressi as the creative producer, and Kaitlin Boland as general manager. Paradox Productions NY, LLC is the executive producer.
The Semitic Root produces experimental theatre that strives for innovative work that challenges racial stereotypes.
To purchase tickets visit brownpapertickets.com/event/2822899.
