Exclusive Interview: Director Allison Price on ‘A Beautiful Day’ at the Public
The Public Theater of San Antonio kicks off its holiday offerings this year with A Beautiful Day in November on the Banks of the Greatest of the Great Lakes by Kate Benson. This new production reopens the Cellar Theater for the organization since its last production in that space in 2019. It runs from October 14 through November 6, 2022, under the direction of Allison Price.
The New York Times calls the play “a quirky comedy that cleverly transforms an extended family’s Thanksgiving dinner into a fiercely fought competitive sport.” Director Price adds “Great Lakes is a high energy exploration into the game that is Thanksgiving. We get into the hilarious, the absurd, and the stress of getting everyone together. The family we make is the family that breaks us.”
What a great interview! The energy and excitement Allison brings to the Public is what it’s all about! Come see A Beautiful Day in November on the Banks of the Greatest of the Great Lakes. Here’s what a first-time San Antonian had to say about it all.
ArtScene SA: You’re new to this town. Tell us why you were drawn to this theater and this show.
Allison Price: Great Lakes is a play about family and the complexity of getting everyone together for the holidays. There is a sense of resilience that comes with family, even through tough and wacky times. There is something for everyone in this play to relate to. We really get into the absurd, tension, and love that comes with a family gathering.
How do you like it?
This is my first time directing in San Antonio! The community has been beyond welcoming and kind. It’s exciting to be part of a team and a town that is hungry for shows as exciting as this.
What drew you to our little river town?
The people drew me here. Claudia and her leadership and vision for The Public is inspiring and exciting. It has been an honor to be here with everyone.
How do you like the local actors?
The actors here are so kind and generous; each day in rehearsal is a joy. We have had such a fun time creating the movement for this show and everyone has really given it their all.
What will regular Public theatergoers think about the show?
People can expect to really feel like they are part of this family and this experience. Our show does not hold back from the absurd, the intensity, and the energy that comes with everyone getting together. We are giving you a courtside seat to the action.
Tickets for shows are $45 (Standard), $30 (Military/Student/Senior* with valid ID), and $15 (Child Under 12) are available online at thepublicsa.org/currentseason, by phone at (210) 733-7258. The Public Theater of San Antonio is wheelchair accessible. For additional information about group sales, contact Patron Services Manager, Ariel Rosen at ariel.rosen@thepublicsa.org.
