The Monsters | La Jolla Playhouse
Schedule
Tue Jun 02 2026 at 07:30 pm to 09:30 pm
UTC-07:00Location
La Jolla Playhouse | La Jolla, CA
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By Ngozi AnyanwuDirected by Tamilla Woodard
Choreography by Adesola Osakalumi
Co-produced with Berkeley Repertory Theatre
“Hypnotic. Engrossing… Anyanwu’s script clusters action in tight, muscular scenes that move along two timelines at once, bouncing between memories of the siblings’ tumultuous childhood and their present-day reunion.” The New York Times
Lil is obsessed with Mixed Martial Arts. She is exhilarated by the art, strength and beauty of fighting, mainly because her older brother Big is a successful (if aging) figure in the local MMA circuit. No one inspires her more, even though they haven’t seen each other in years. She’s kept her distance… until the day she finally shows up on his doorstep.
“Ngozi Anyanwu dramatizes with equal parts heartbreak and humor” (NPR) and in her searing new play, she explores sibling bonds, reunions and the fight to build a life you can be proud of. Tamilla Woodard is noted for directing warm-blooded productions that “lead with their heart.” (The New York Times)
Through the propulsive lens of Mixed Martial Arts, Big and Lil’s story fuses the poetry of words and symphony of movement into a stylish, gritty and action-charged love story between estranged siblings.
“Anyanwu’s language reaches for the stars within the darkness.” The New York Times
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Where is it happening?
La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093-5100, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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