A rehearsal scene from the world premiere of Cold War Choir Practice captures the tension and familial dynamics of the Cold War era.
The Trinity Repertory Company in Providence will unveil its 2025-26 season with the world premiere of ‘Cold War Choir Practice,’ a dark comedic thriller by Ro Reddick. Running from September 4 to October 5, the production features original music and explores family dynamics during the Cold War. With themes of personal ambition and political ideologies, the play aims to entertain while addressing societal issues. The creative team includes talented professionals, and accessibility initiatives will make performances available to all.
The Trinity Repertory Company in Providence will kick off its 2025-26 season with the world premiere of “Cold War Choir Practice”, a dark comedic thriller by Ro Reddick, from September 4 to October 5, 2025. The highly anticipated opening night performance is set for Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 7:30 PM, and will welcome press invites for media coverage.
This new production, directed by Aileen Wen McGroddy, features original music that captures the essence of a time fraught with tension and uncertainty. Artistic Director Curt Columbus expressed enthusiasm for introducing Reddick’s work to the Trinity Rep audience, highlighting her plays as not only intelligent but also rich in socio-political commentary.
“Cold War Choir Practice” is set against the backdrop of Ronald Reagan’s America, a period marked by the looming threat of nuclear war and emerging familial rifts shaped by contrasting political beliefs. The narrative revolves around a Black conservative man returning home with his enigmatic wife, which sets off a tumultuous family reunion filled with discussions on Reaganomics, Cold War espionage, and choir practices.
The play’s exploration of family dynamics amidst shifting political ideologies serves not only as entertainment but also as a lens through which societal issues are examined. Themes of personal ambition and familial relationships during the intense Cold War era are intricately woven into the story’s fabric.
Originally developed during Brown University’s Writing is Live festival, “Cold War Choir Practice” recently garnered acclaim through a sold-out Off-Broadway workshop produced in collaboration with Clubbed Thumb and Page 73. The play was recognized as a Critics’ Pick by The New York Times, further highlighting its relevance and appeal.
The team behind this groundbreaking production consists of accomplished professionals including music director Bethany Aiken, choreographer Taavon Gamble, and scenic designer Michael McGarty. They bring a wealth of experience and creative vision to ensure the story resonates with its audience.
The cast comprises students and artists affiliated with the Brown/Trinity Rep program, featuring talents such as Lucia Aremu portraying a pivotal role as a 10-year-old girl, alongside various prominent actors who contribute to the diverse ensemble.
In a commitment to accessibility, Trinity Rep will host two “Pay What You Wish” performances on September 4 and 9, 2025, allowing audiences to choose their ticket prices within set limits. The theater will also introduce Neighborhood Nights, offering a 20% discount for Rhode Island residents attending Sunday evening shows.
Additional efforts to enhance accessibility include a sensory-friendly performance on September 24, 2025, and open-captioned performances during the final week of the run from October 1-5.
Ro Reddick, a queer Black playwright and songwriter, is a recent graduate of the Brown University MFA playwriting program. Throughout her career, she has earned accolades including a Lambda Literary Fellowship and has been a two-time finalist for the prestigious O’Neill Competition. Her work often reflects her diverse experiences and perspectives.
Director Aileen Wen McGroddy serves as Co-Artistic Director of TUTA Theatre Chicago and is a 2022 graduate of the Brown/Trinity Rep MFA Program in Directing. Her experience and vision will contribute significantly to the artistic direction of the production.
As Trinity Rep prepares for this exciting season opener, the anticipation surrounding “Cold War Choir Practice” is palpable, promising an engaging evening of theater that reflects on critical historical and political themes relevant to contemporary audiences.
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