Goodman Theatre has announced casting for the three developmental productions featured in the 15th annual New Stages Festival.

The three plays, which are staged in repertory following two weeks of rehearsal, include “There’s Always the Hudson” by Paola Lázaro-Muñoz, directed by Jess McLeod; “Felons and Familias” by Sandra Delgado, directed by Marcela Muñoz; and “Graveyard Shift” by Korde Arrington Tuttle, directed by Danya Taymor.

In addition, four staged readings will play during the final weekend of the festival (“Professionals Weekend”), including “The Wizards” by Ricardo Gamboa, directed by Azar Kazemi (October 5 at 10:30am); “Between Covers” by Sarah Schulman, directed by Wendy C. Goldberg (October 5 at 2pm); “Birthday Candles” by Noah Haidle (October 6 at 10:30am), directed by Vivienne Benesch; and “Cressida on Top” by Paula Vogel, directed by Shana Cooper (October 6 at 2pm).

Design for the festival is by Kevin Depinet (Set), Noël Huntzinger (Costumes for “There’s Always the Hudson” and ‘Graveyard Shift”), Birgit Rattenborg Wise (Costumes for “Felons and Familias”), Jesse Klug (Lights) and Richard Woodbury (Sound).

Full casting and show descriptions from the press release follow.

“There’s Always the Hudson”
By Paola Lázaro-Muñoz, directed by Jess McLeod
A Developmental Production; appears in repertory (September 19 – October 6)

Lola and T met years ago in group therapy, where they set a far-off deadline to be happier…or else. With that deadline suddenly approaching—tomorrow at 4:30am—they’ll meet on the George Washington Bridge for one last chance to turn the world upside down. Two half-broken souls are out for revenge on everyone who has ever hurt, stolen from, or otherwise wronged them in this foul and fearless adventure.

CAST:

Charin Alvarez – Isabela
Rinksa Carrasco – Lola
Eddie Martinez – Ernesto/Antonio
Steve Pickering  – Ruddy
Neil Tyrone Pritchard – T
Bradley Grant Smith – Chase/Scott
Rebekah Ward – Angie/Madeline

“Felons and Familias”
By Sandra Delgado, directed by Marcela Muñoz
A Developmental Production; appears in repertory (September 21 – October 7)

Like millions of Americans, Clara’s days are consumed with juggling work and family. Recently divorced with a tween-age daughter and an aging father, she finally has something to look forward to: a trip to Europe. In preparation, Clara, who immigrated to the U.S. as a child, decides to apply for full citizenship. When her application is flagged, an unfathomable series of events threaten to force her from the only home she’s ever known.

CAST:
Katie Barberi – Vega/Chava
Donovan Diaz – Ruben
Raul Romero Lira – Papi
Katherine Navigato – Stella
Monica Orozco – Clara
Luigi Sottile – David

“Graveyard Shift”
By Korde Arrington Tuttle, directed by Danya Taymor
A Developmental Production; appears in repertory (September 23 – October 7)

When an exciting job offer materializes, Janelle relocates to Texas and moves in with her partner, Kane. Meanwhile, a small-town police officer’s life is thrown into flux when the co-worker he’s romantically involved with decides to leave town. When their worlds collide, Janelle and Kane experience firsthand how dangerous power can be. An unflinching but big-hearted look at how we navigate a world full of fear, “Graveyard Shift” is inspired by real events.

CAST:
Japhet Balaban – Brian
Meighan Gerachis – Trish
Aneisa Hicks – Janelle
Al’Jaleel McGhee – Kane
Tyler Meredith – Elise

The New Stages Festival runs September 19 – October 7 in the Owen Theatre; to reserve free tickets, call 312.443.3800, visit GoodmanTheatre.org/NewStagesFestival or the box office (170 N. Dearborn). For more information about “Industry Professionals Weekend,” visit GoodmanTheatre.org/Professionals.