Chicago theater veterans are bringing new life to Tracy Letts's critically acclaimed 1996 play "Bug" on Broadway, which explores themes of paranoia and conspiracy. The production is staged at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre and features a talented cast including Carrie Coon and Namir Smallwood.
Letts, who wrote the Pulitzer Prize-winning "August: Osage County," describes his motivation for reviving "Bug." He notes that while the internet has changed the way people share information, conspiracy theories have become more mainstream over time. The play tells the story of a couple isolated in an Oklahoma motel who slowly lose their grip on reality as they descend into paranoia and delusion.
Letts aims to avoid judging his characters and instead explores what makes them relatable to audiences. He draws inspiration from the psychological condition "folie à deux," where one person can transmit delusions to another. The play is a love story about two people experiencing shared psychosis, with Letts carefully crafting it as such.
In an interview, Letts mentions that his wife Carrie Coon brings a "Midwestern pragmatism" to her portrayal of Agnes. He praises her physical acting abilities and the way she embodies the character's transformation over time.
The revival also coincides with other projects for Letts in the coming months, including a marathon festival featuring readings from his work at Circle in the Square Theatre School. The event aims to showcase the enduring appeal of his plays, which continue to resonate with audiences decades after their initial release.
In an era where conspiracy theories and misinformation thrive, "Bug" offers a thought-provoking exploration of these themes. Letts's revival serves as a timely reminder that his work remains relevant and continues to inspire new generations of actors and audiences alike.
Letts, who wrote the Pulitzer Prize-winning "August: Osage County," describes his motivation for reviving "Bug." He notes that while the internet has changed the way people share information, conspiracy theories have become more mainstream over time. The play tells the story of a couple isolated in an Oklahoma motel who slowly lose their grip on reality as they descend into paranoia and delusion.
Letts aims to avoid judging his characters and instead explores what makes them relatable to audiences. He draws inspiration from the psychological condition "folie à deux," where one person can transmit delusions to another. The play is a love story about two people experiencing shared psychosis, with Letts carefully crafting it as such.
In an interview, Letts mentions that his wife Carrie Coon brings a "Midwestern pragmatism" to her portrayal of Agnes. He praises her physical acting abilities and the way she embodies the character's transformation over time.
The revival also coincides with other projects for Letts in the coming months, including a marathon festival featuring readings from his work at Circle in the Square Theatre School. The event aims to showcase the enduring appeal of his plays, which continue to resonate with audiences decades after their initial release.
In an era where conspiracy theories and misinformation thrive, "Bug" offers a thought-provoking exploration of these themes. Letts's revival serves as a timely reminder that his work remains relevant and continues to inspire new generations of actors and audiences alike.
. I think it's interesting that Letts aims to avoid judging his characters, instead opting to explore the complexities of their psyche and what makes them relatable to audiences. This approach allows us to tap into our own vulnerabilities and empathize with the human experience.
. I'm intrigued by Letts's use of the psychological condition "folie à deux" as a framework for the play's exploration of shared psychosis. It's thought-provoking and raises important questions about the nature of reality and our perceptions of it.
. Letts's work continues to resonate with audiences, and his revival is a testament to the enduring power of his plays to inspire new generations of artists and viewers alike 
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i had no idea that was a thing and now im kinda fascinated by it. anyway cant wait to see this production on broadway! 
. I mean, my kid can barely handle watching YouTube videos without me having to have a chat with them about what's real and what's not... let alone full-on delusions 
. But at the same time, it's actually really interesting how Letts explores that psychological condition folie à deux - it's like, what even is normal anymore? 
Anyway, Carrie Coon looks amazing in the lead role, I'm excited to see her bring Agnes to life on stage! 
. Carrie Coon is going to bring such depth to the role of Agnes, her Midwestern pragmatism is gonna be a total game-changer 
. This revival is giving me all the feels and making me think about my own relationships with others in a whole new way 
. The fact that his wife Carrie Coon is involved makes it even more special! 
Can't wait to see this play live, it's gonna be a wild ride 
I mean, Tracy Letts is literally a genius and Carrie Coon is amazing - she's got this whole 'Midwestern pragmatism' thing down pat 
. I love how he's not judging his characters, but instead trying to understand what makes them tick. It's like, we can all relate to feeling paranoid or delusional sometimes, right? 
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... anyway, I'm def gonna check out this revival and see what all the fuss is about 
. i think what lets is trying to say with this play is that we're not as different from each other as we think we are, and our perceptions can become distorted over time 
. the cast looks great btw, can't wait to see carrie coon bring agnes to life 
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... so I think its really cool that they're reviving "Bug" on Broadway after all these years. Its like, the themes are still super relevant today 
... anyway I love how Tracy Letts is tackling this topic in his play without being too preachy or anything. And Carrie Coon sounding like an amazing actress! I'd def wanna see her on stage 
. Anyway, I'm gonna go see this play now, sounds like a wild ride! 
It'll be interesting to see how Carrie Coon brings Agnes to life, especially with her Midwestern background. Does anyone else think this revival is a good idea? Should we be revisiting these themes in theatre right now? 
. I'm also super stoked for Tracy Letts' upcoming projects - his work is always so thought-provoking and relevant, it's amazing that he continues to push boundaries with new productions 
. Can't wait to see how this revival turns out!
. Its a super intense play, and i don't want them to water it down or anything. But at the same time... I mean, what do i know? maybe its all good 
I mean, who doesn't love a good conspiracy theory? 
Can't wait to see this revival!