A House Divided, a new play by Joshua Crone,
directed by Thoeger Hansen and produced by Night Cook Studio will premiere at
The NuBox Theater (754 9th Avenue, New York City)
March 20 – 30 (Showtimes: Thursdays – Saturdays @ 7:00 pm, Sundays @ 2:00 pm
Jenny Martel, a seasoned NYC character actor, is bringing her extensive experience to the new play, “A House Divided.” With a career spanning many years, including a notable appearance in the critically acclaimed Off-Broadway production of The Beckett Plays directed by Alan Schneider, Martel returns to the stage after devoting time to raising her family.
Martel’s recent work includes appearances in several indie films and a TV pilot, and prior to the pandemic, she was a fixture in Off-Off-Broadway showcases, with over 60 to her credit.
Martel expresses a strong connection to the play’s themes. “Well, I couldn’t find a more relevant or explosive play for the time we’re living in,” she says. “All of us, no matter what our political persuasion, have been in a state of whiplash since 2016 and then Covid in 2020. Strong feelings about our rights (or the lack thereof) have revealed some ugly truths about us citizens of the United States. Are we truly created equal? Does one’s race or sexual identity mean that such rights are not to be granted?” Martel sees the play as reflecting real-life conflicts, stating, “I’ve seen this dynamic play out in my own extended family and the results have not always been pretty.”
The play’s exploration of current events resonates deeply with Martel. “Yes!” she exclaims, when asked about the responsibility of representing such themes. “Especially since the character I play, Alice, has views that are in total opposition to my own. Although I personally feel that many of her beliefs are reprehensible, it is my job as an actor to not judge and to make her a living, breathing human being worthy of being heard and loved. It definitely requires walking a tightrope.”
Martel believes the play offers a crucial message for today’s divided society. “I feel it will take a miracle to bridge the current political divides in our country, and the only tool that I can see we have is to truly listen and value each other’s opinions and respect the person holding them, even if we disagree with what they say – and this is something this play addresses.”
Looking ahead, Martel is focused on the ongoing journey of an actor. “An Actor’s Life! Go back to hustling for work.”
ARTIUM: OMNI 