THE 26/27 HOURGLASS SEASON!
THE HUMANS
by stephen karam
directed by alexa Scott-flaherty
Saturday, November 21st, 2pm
This Tony Award winner and Pulitzer Prize finalist follows the Blake family as they struggle through an uncomfortable Thanksgiving dinner, hosted by the youngest of the family, Brigid, in her cramped Manhattan apartment. Part humor and part hurt, the play sheds light on the problems of the modern working-class family while an inescapably eerie atmosphere mirrors the existential dread that comes with trying to “pull yourself up by your bootstraps.”
CLYDE’S
by Lynn Nottage
directed by Shawnda urie
Saturday, February 13th, 2pm
From two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, Lynn Nottage, comes this heart-filled serio-comedy about a fast-paced, high-pressure truck stop sandwich joint staffed entirely by ex-convicts. Though their dictatorial boss holds their criminal records over their heads, through the guidance of their mentor, the crew finds dignity, purpose, and a hopeful path toward personal redemption and freedom … and hopefully, the perfect sandwich.
THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME
by SIMON STEPHENS
directed by SAM NELSON
Saturday, April 10th, 2pm
This adaptation of the acclaimed novel follows Christopher, who finds his neighbor's dog, Wellington, killed by a garden fork at seven minutes after midnight. When his teacher encourages him to write a crime novel about his experience against his father’s wishes, life-altering family secrets are revealed, and Christopher realizes that he’s in deeper than he bargained for.
RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED - QUICK AND EASY!
HPRS events are free but reservations are strongly encouraged.**
A free play reading series with Blackfriars Theatre
Hourglass Play Reading Series is an official program of Blackfriars Theatre. Founded in 2010 by Sandi Henschel, Barbara Lobb and Maria Scipione, HPRS strives to present readings of thought-provoking plays that explore culturally relevant themes and give voice to diverse stories. We practice color and gender conscious casting and strive to create an inclusive theatrical community where all actors feel welcome and valued. Leading the team for the 2025-2026 Season are Co-Producers Cynthia Brito and Ron Dufort.
For more information about the Hourglass Play Reading Series, email Hourglass@blackfriars.org.
YOUR GIFT HELPS TO KEEP HOURGLASS OPEN TO EVERYONE
THE HOURGLASS PLAY READING SERIES IS A FREE PROGRAM OF BLACKFRIARS THEATRE. DONATIONS ARE ENCOURAGED SO THAT WE CAN MAINTAIN ACCESSIBILITY FOR OUR ENTIRE COMMUNITY. YOU CAN DONATE IN PERSON, AT THE THEATRE - OR FEEL FREE TO CLICK THE DONATE BUTTON BELOW. THANK YOU FOR YOUR KINDNESS AND GENEROSITY!
All readings are cast through an audition process.
Director submissions can be made by emailing info@blackfriars.org. Please include resume/cover letter with your submission.