Arts
PEPPERMINT CREEK THEATRE COMPANY ANNOUNCES OPENING OF “Mankind”
Peppermint Creek Theatre Company Presents Robert O’Hara’s Provocative Dark Comedy
LANSING, MI — Peppermint Creek Theatre Company is proud to present "Mankind" by Robert O’Hara, a bold and satirical exploration of gender, power, and societal norms. The production, directed by acclaimed Michigan theatre artist John Lepard, runs for two weekends, February 21 - 23 and February 27 - March 2, 2025.
Set in a dystopian future where women have become extinct, "Mankind" follows two men who unexpectedly conceive a child in a world governed by a male-dominated society. As they navigate the absurdities of a world that has rewritten the rules of reproduction, O’Hara’s razor-sharp wit and biting humor take audiences on a journey that is both hilarious and deeply thought-provoking.
"We are thrilled to bring Robert O’Hara’s daring and timely work to Lansing audiences," said Artistic Director Chad Swan-Badgero. "O’Hara has crafted a play that challenges assumptions, satirizes the world we live in, and forces us to confront difficult truths—all while making us laugh. It’s exactly the kind of theatre that sparks dialogue and reflection, which is at the heart of Peppermint Creek’s mission."
Known for his provocative storytelling and incisive social commentary, Robert O’Hara is a playwright and director whose works often examine race, gender, and cultural identity through an unapologetically bold lens. "Mankind" is no exception, offering a satirical take on a future shaped by the unintended consequences of patriarchal control.
“I was drawn to this show because it will push everyone’s buttons,” laughs directed John Lepard. “It pokes at (and focuses on) religion, politics, human rights - the works.” When asked if anything unexpected has come up during rehearsals for the show, Lepard replied, “I am surprised at how much time we take discussing this dystopian future and comparing it to the present in our rehearsals. Audiences should be ready for a wild ride through ideas and situations that may seem familiar yet impossible. A world with no women where men just keep heading down the worst possible paths.”
Peppermint Creek Theatre Company continues its tradition of producing socially relevant and thought-provoking theatre, inviting audiences to engage with themes that challenge perspectives and inspire meaningful conversations. "Mankind" is a thrilling addition to the company’s 2024-2025 season.
Performance Schedule:
· February 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, March 1 and 2, 2025
· Evening performances begin at 7:00 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2:00 p.m.
· Performance Location: Stage One Performing Arts Center, 2200 Lake Lansing Rd, Lansing MI 48912
Tickets:
Tickets are available for purchase online at www.peppermintcreek.org or at the door, subject to availability. General admission is $15, or $10 for students, seniors 65+, and veterans.
About Peppermint Creek Theatre Company:
Founded with a mission to raise awareness of vital issues in society through captivating and meaningful theater, Peppermint Creek Theatre Company has been a vital force in Lansing’s artistic community. Known for its innovative and socially conscious productions, PCTC continues to inspire audiences and foster conversations that extend beyond the stage.
“Mankind” CAST LIST
Jason – Steve Lee
Mark – Connor Kelley
Actor 3 – Heath Sartorius
Actor 4 – Ndegwa McCloud
Actor 5 – Mike Nelson
Actor 6 – Jeff Magnuson
Peppermint Creek Theatre Company
Williamston Theatre Starts 2025 With "A Case for the Existence of God"
WILLIAMSTON Mich. - Mid-Michigan’s award-winning professional theatre company, Williamston Theatre, located at 122 S. Putnam Street in downtown Williamston, is starting off 2025 with the Michigan Premiere of A Case for the Existence of God by Samuel D. Hunter. Performances for this production begin Thursday, February 6 and run through Sunday, March 16. Tickets are now on sale.
Inside an Idaho office cubicle, yogurt-plant worker Ryan and mortgage broker Keith couldn’t be more different. They unexpectedly discover one thing they have in common – they are single fathers of toddler daughters. Ryan, white and divorced, wants to buy a plot of land that his family once owned, with dreams of making a stable life for his daughter. Keith, Black and gay, is dealing with challenges to his hopes of adopting his foster daughter. With humor, empathy, and deep compassion, playwright Samuel D. Hunter intertwines these two lives in a story about fatherhood, family, and friendship. Contains mature language.
A Case for the Existence of God features newcomer to the Williamston Theatre stage Anthony Cason along with Ryan Patrick Welsh (Predictor, A Very Williamston Christmas - 2022 production). The Director of A Case for the Existence of God is Jasmine Rivera (Mrs. Harrison, The Cake). The production team includes Scenic Design by Kirk A. Domer (On the Market, Mrs. Harrison), Lighting Design by Harley Miah, Costume Design by Michaella Victoria (Thirst), Sound Design by Brian Cole (Thirst, Predictor), Props Design/ Set Dressing by Kinza Parker (Be Here Now), and Fight Choreography by Alexis Black (The Magnolia Ballet, Part 1, Tracy Jones). The Stage Manager is Stefanie Din (A Very Williamston Christmas, Thirst).
Performances for A Case for the Existence of God will run from February 6 through March 16. The schedule for the first week of performances: Thursday and Friday at 7:30PM, Saturday and Sunday at 2:00PM. The schedule for the remaining performances: Thursday at 2:00PM, Friday at 7:30PM, Saturday at 2:00PM and 7:30PM, Sunday at 2:00PM. The first four performances of A Case for the Existence of God are Preview performances where audience members will have the opportunity to take part in a talkback session with the director following each performance. The Official Opening Night is Friday, February 14 at 7:30PM. The Conversation Sunday is March 9 immediately following the 2:00PM performance.
Tickets are Pay-What-You-Wish for the Preview on Thursday, February 6. Remaining Preview tickets are $22.00. Starting Thursday, February 13 tickets for all performances are $44. Senior citizens (65+) and members of the Military (active and retired) receive a $2 discount on all tickets except Previews. Student tickets (with a valid student ID) are $10 for all performances. Ticket prices for patrons 30 or under are $30 (with valid ID). Discounts are also available for groups of 10 or more (booked at least 1 week in advance through the Box Office). Tickets can be purchased Tuesday - Friday from 12-5pm by calling (517) 655-SHOW (7469) or ordered on-line up until 1 hour prior to the performance by visiting the website www.williamstontheatre.org.