Larry Littman, in HGTC’s production of “Genius (by Chopin).” Littman does Blind Hermit duties in “Frankenstein.”
HUDSON GUILD THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS: “FRANKENSTEIN”
Like a good idea that refuses to die, Mary Shelley’s classic horror story has been reimagined countless times since her novel was first published in 1818. Now, Hudson Guild Theatre Company puts its stamp on “Frankenstein” with a new stage adaptation that draws on the wildly imaginative (and unexpectedly witty) 1931 film version directed by James Whale (starring Boris Karloff as the lumbering, mute and misunderstood reanimated creation). Over 75 tight and tense minutes, a cast of 18 will perform the play on a set (designed by Sheryl Liu) which incorporates modern industrial materials to create a cold world of ruthless experimentation and unbridled scientific research. Larry Littman, a senior in his eighties who’s been teaching a writing class at Hudson Guild for many years, plays The Blind Hermit. “Larry is a wonderful enhancement to any production he’s in,” says director Jim Furlong. “He’s a real character actor. Since his retirement over 15 years ago, he’s been a devoted and productive member of our community in many different ways.”
Appropriate for ages six and up. Fri., March 22 & 29 at 8pm; Sat., March 23 & 30 at 2pm & 8pm; Sun., March 24 at 3pm. At the Hudson Guild Theatre (441 W. 26th St., btw. Ninth & Tenth Aves.) Admission: Pay what you wish. For reservations, call 212-760-9817. Visit hudsonguild.org.
Yo, Ashton raps…about ageism…on April 8.
THIS CHAIR ROCKS: HOW AGEISM WARPS OUR VIEW OF LONG LIFE
The Who were just a bunch of cocky pups when they sang “I hope I die before I get old.” Well, they’re still singing — and we’re still talkin’ about their generation. But even though the children of the 60s (who warned us not to trust anyone over 30) are redefining what it means to be active and aware contributors, they’re not immune to ageism (both internalized and cultural). This talk by blogger Ashton Applewhite takes a look at stereotyping and discrimination on the basis of age — and why it’s so damaging. Prep for the Q&A by reading some of Applewhite’s blog work, on This Chair Rocks and Yo, Is this Ageist? — or go all old school and thumb through her book (“Cutting Loose: Why Women Who End Their Marriages Do So Well”).
Free admission. Mon., April 8, 6:30pm. At The Cooper Union’s Rose Auditorium (41 Cooper Square, E. 7th St. & 3rd Ave.). For info, visitcooperunion.edu, call 212-353-4195 or find The Cooper Union at facebook.com/cooperunion and at twitter.com/cooperunion.
