On Wednesday, Hell in a Handbag Productions announced casting for its fall production of ‘The Artificial Jungle,’ the final play written by camp legend Charles Ludlam, a beloved figure of New York’s avant-garde scene at the height of the AIDS crisis.
The story takes place in the Artificial Jungle, a lackluster pet store owned by Chester Nurdiger. Mother Nurdiger works hard to give her son everything he needs, but there are some things a mother just can’t provide. Chester’s listless wife, Roxanne, is equally defeated by her surroundings. But, when drifter Zachary Slade comes into the picture, passions hit the fan and plotting ensues.
A Red Orchid’s Shade Murray will direct Chazie Bly (Frankie), David Cerda (Mother Nurdiger), Sydney Genco (Roxanne Nurdiger), Ed Jones (Chester Nurdiger) and David Lipschutz (Zachary Slade).
“The Artificial Jungle” will play Sept. 20–Oct. 28 at Stage 773’s Black Box Theater, 1225 W. Belmont Ave.
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