Pugilist Specialist

After a much lauded run at 59e59 Theaters, The Riot Group’s Pugilist Specialist, written by Adriano Shaplin, transfers to 45 Below.

Four highly-trained American marines are assigned the task of eliminating a troublesome Middle Eastern leader. This psychological thriller unfolds in a series of field recordings, detailing the planning, execution and mishandling of modern political assassination, and exploring the mentalities of people who give – and receive – orders.

Performance Schedule for final week

Monday, November 22 at 7:00PM
Tuesday, November 23 at 8:00PM
Wednesday, November 24 at 3:00PM & 8:00PM
Thursday, November 25 OFF – Thanksgiving
Friday, November 26 at 8:00PM
Saturday, November 27 at 3:00PM & 8:00PM
Sunday, November 28 at 3:00PM & 7:00PM

Press Quotes

“Sharp political theatre… engrossing, inventive…bound to send audiences out talking” Neil Genzlinger – The New York Times

“A beautiful, horrifying play with an ethical, tragic heart. I was bowled over by the performances, the staging and most of all by the writing – something new and exhilarating in the theater.” – Tony Kushner

“The play is particularly timely – and brilliant too!” – Newsweek

“A visceral performance piece… an uncommonly bracing shot of political…theater. Chillingly convincing, tautly suspenseful…a stunning final act.” – David Rooney, Variety

“A tightly constructed psychological drama – its real theme is the minefield of military relationships.” – Liesl Schlesinger, The New Yorker

“The Riot Group has a gift for tense, language-driven theater.” – Ben Brantley, The New York Times

TIME OUT NEW YORK & VILLAGE VOICE Critics’ Choice

Appropriate for audiences 12 and up.

For group sales (10 and over), call 212-354-8833.