Payden Ackerman

The Same Room is a visceral examination of an all too common human experience: our capacity to wage war with ourselves. It’s a poetic, thrilling, and excruciatingly honest piece of theatre, and well worth the journey. ... full review

Rochester, 1996 is an experience you aren't likely to forget. Lauren Ludwig and Thaddeus Shafer have created a deeply personal meditation on religion, family, and sexual identity. The result is a three-hour long immersive experience that is at times funny, poignant, shocking, and always intriguing. ... full review

The First and The Last features a powerful script, inventive direction, and incredible performances. You won’t want to miss this gem. ... full review

Here Comes Rutherford features powerful and expressive writing, and a mesmerizing performance you are not likely to forget. Thomas Silcott is simply stunning. Please, do yourself a favor and see this show.... full review

Cheek (and other stories) is a collection of three short plays featuring quirky characters in atypical situations. The writing is sharp, the direction is deft, but the true stars are the trio of actors who portray all the characters. Their chemistry alone is worth the price of admission.... full review

Two Motherfuckers on a Ledge is a powerful show about what makes a hero. Is it the will to act, or the act itself? Ronn Johnston's artfully crafted play is made visceral by his meticulous portrayal of an emotionally troubled soul, and Veronica Wylie deftly navigates her character's transformation, showcasing both her range and vulnerability. The show, simply put, is a perfect duet.... full review

Definition of Man is many things: a love story, a movement piece, a poem, a philosophical treatise. Most of all, it’s a reflection of humanity. And it’s truly extraordinary.... full review

Titus Sharkdronicus is a lively and irreverent take on Shakespeare’s tragedy. With swift pacing, wonderfully built comedic moments, and skilled acting, this salty interpretation of the bard’s tale will entertain the casual theatre-goer and Shakespeare enthusiast alike.... full review

Zip Ties by Benjamin Schwartz is bloody frolic in the vein of Quentin Tarantino and Martin McDonagh, with a dash of Harold Pinter sprinkled on top. And that’s a good thing. The play, running just one hour, unravels with an urgency and tension that’s palpable. A pair of hitmen abduct a man who has just been released from prison; as one hitman finishes tying the victim’s hands with rope (he detests zip ties), the other stares blankly into the audience. It’s a wonderfully uncomfortable opening, and ... full review