Cori Thomas explores America’s criminal justice system in her topical new play, opening at Rattlestick Playwrights Theater.
Rattlestick Playwrights Theater, in association with ShadowCatcher Entertainment, has announced complete casting for the world premiere of Lockdown, written by Cori Thomas and directed by Kent Gash. Commissioned by Rattlestick with support from the Virginia P. Toulmin Foundation, Lockdown will begin previews on April 17 at Rattlestick Playwrights Theater ahead of a May 2 opening. Performances are set to run through May 19.
Lockdown takes an authentic, intimate, and powerful look at the impact of long-term incarceration and the reality of what life inside prison is really like. Inspired by Cori Thomas's time with people serving life sentences at San Quentin Prison, Lockdown explores the possibilities for transformation through human connection. Following each performance of Lockdown is a community conversation that creates an opportunity for audiences to discuss the play with guest speakers who have firsthand knowledge and expertise in criminal justice reform. This 25-minute moderated discussion will give the audience an opportunity to expand knowledge, deepen engagement and inspire action that can lead to vital policy changes.
The cast of Lockdown will feature Eric Berryman (The B-Side) as C.O., Curt Morlaye (Gotham) as Clue, Keith Randolph Smith (Jitney) as Wise, and Zenzi Williams (School Girls) as Ernie.
The creative team includes set design by Jason Sherwood, costume design by Kara Harmon, lighting design by Dawn Chiang, and sound design by Justin Ellington. The production dramaturg is Ignacia Delgado, the production manager is Jenny Beth Snyder, the technical director is Aaron Gonzalez, and the production stage manager is Genevieve Ortiz.