January 27, 2023

by Kristen Schweizer

It is a big day for New Village Arts (NVA). The morning featured the dedication ceremony and ribbon cutting of the freshly renovated and renamed Dea Hurston New Village Arts Center. The evening is the first preview of The Ferryman, marking the first American production since the Tony Award-winning play’s Broadway run. According to Kristianne Kurner, both landmark accomplishments are decades in the making. She thanked the supportive crowd, as well as namesake artist and philanthropist Dea Hurston. Hurston is the first black woman to have a United States theatre named after her in more than 50 years. 

The new, sunlit space reflects the beach-side community of Carlsbad. With giant, folding glass doors to beckon passersby and colorful seating, the modern lobby is ready for diverse programming. NVA Associate Artistic Director Ahmed Dents looks forward to filling the calendar with inclusive, multi-genre work, including rotating art galleries curated by Zig “Zigaloe” Wharton. At the Friday ribbon-cutting celebration, the walls held multiple pieces by the prolific artist.

“We are going to do good things in here,” the artist assured. Zigaloe’s work is inspired by the diaspora, and his colorful collection is at home at the Dea Hurston New Village Arts Center.

After The Ferryman, NVA’s 21st season features The Roommate, a dark comedy by Jen Silverman, and the classic musical Singin’ In The Rain.

THE FERRYMAN

Regional Premiere
New Village Arts – 2787 State St. Carlsbad CA 92008
Directed by Kristianne Kurner 
Written by Jez Butterworth
Previews Jan 27 – Feb 3, 2023
Opening: February 4, 2023 at 7:30pm
Runs Feb 4 – March 5, 2023