The Empty Head Theater Company: Out of the Box 2: Far from Nirvana

OUT OF THE BOX 2: Far From Nirvana comes to the Ellis in August

NEWBURGH, NY — The Empty Head Theater Company proudly presents Out of the Box 2: Far From Nirvana a new play by Jack Rushton. The two-week presentation reinforces EHT’s commitment to original theater celebrating new voices, bold ideas, and innovative storytelling.

Performances will take place August 20, 21, and August 27, 28, 29 at The Ellis, 60 Dubois Street, Newburgh, NY.

This year, Out of the Box 2 features the full-length play Far From Nirvana by Jack Rushton, developed through The Empty Head Theater Company's collaborative workshop process:

Together, this work explores contemporary social, cultural, and personal issues through comedy, satire, fantasy, and drama. The play offers a unique perspective while reflecting the company's commitment to producing theater that is entertaining, thought-provoking, and rooted in today's world.

Unlike a traditional theater festival, Out of the Box emphasizes script development. Throughout the summer, playwrights, directors, actors, and designers collaborate to refine each script before it’s fully staged premiere. The result is an exciting evening of fresh theatrical voices and stories that continue to evolve through the creative process.

The production opens on Thursday, August 20 and concludes with a Closing Reception following the performance on Saturday, August 29, where audience members are invited to meet the playwrights, director, cast, and creative team for an informal evening of conversation and celebration.

The Empty Head Theater Company is Newburgh's resident ensemble dedicated to producing new plays, contemporary comedy, and socially relevant theater with a slightly offbeat twist. Based at The Ellis, the company develops original work through collaboration among playwrights, actors, directors, and designers, creating theater that is inventive, engaging, and distinctly Hudson Valley.