Wednesday, May 26, 2010

‘Kicking a Dead Horse’ to be read at nexStage

New play by Sam Shepard focuses on life and the West

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By SABINA DANA PLASSE
Express Staff Writer

It's a common practice for men and women in the twilight of their lives to reflect on how they have lived. Taking this idea further, award-winning playwright Sam Shepard's new play, "Kicking a Dead Horse," is not only a reflection on life but also a comment about the deterioration of the American West.

The nexStage Theatre in Ketchum will present a reading of "Kicking a Dead Horse" on Thursday, May 27, at 6:30 p.m. as part of its 2010 play reading series. The reading is free and complimentary cookies and wine will be served. The play is a 75-minute monologue, which will be performed by actor Steve D'Smith.

"It's the latest play from one of America's premiere playwrights," said Jon Kane, who directs the reading. "Shepard is in his mid-60s and the play illuminates on old age and death. It's also an homage to Samuel Beckett."

The play tells the story of a successful New York City art dealer who goes on a solo trip to the wilderness. On the first day of his trip, his horse dies, giving the art dealer lots of time to think.

"Shepard is one of the nexStage's favorite playwrights," Kane said. "In this play series, the nexStage tries to explore new plays and plays many people cannot see because the plays are unable to be produced because of financial reasons."

Sabina Dana Plasse: splasse@mtexpress.com

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