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Program Guide

The Catastrophist

by Lauren M. Gunderson
A co-production of Marin Theatre Company and Round House Theatre

Directed by Jasson Mindakis
Featuring William DeMeritt as Nathan

MARCH 18 - MAY 31, 2021
The back of a man looking at a giant virus.

Virologist Nathan Wolfe, named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in the World for his work tracking viral pandemics, has hunted viruses from the jungles of Cameroon to the basement of the CDC. Hear his story – presented as cinematic digital theatre – as he tracks the threats that come from without and within. A blazingly intelligent, wryly witty, and warm look at the thrill of discovery, whether it’s a new virus or the treasures of your own family.

Playwright Lauren Gunderson delivers a theatrical experience built of and for this moment in time – a time-jumping tale based on the life and work of Nathan Wolfe (who also happens to be her husband).

PRICING:
$30 per household
Subscriber discounts available

This video-on-demand production can be watched anytime and as many times as you like between March 18 and May 31, 2021 with your link.

Buzz
"Riveting"
Jared Bowen, GBH
"A subtle blend of film and live theatre...interesting and exotic yet entirely normal, filled, like all lives, with discovery and disappointment, joy and loss. In Ms. Gunderson’s hands, 'The Catastrophist' sheds compassionate light on the all-too-human tendency to ignore catastrophe until it is too late. There’s no risk, and plenty of reward, in watching this essential lesson."
The Economist
"Deeply affecting...sensorial...warmly comical. Readymade for this historical moment."
The San Francisco Examiner
"A deep, loving, touching portrait...that viewers can’t help but get swept up in, feeling its ache almost as if it were their own."
Marin Independent Journal
"ABSOLUTELY RIVETING.

In this age of pandemic, it's a play for our times.
It makes filming a play into a virtue, because it doesn't look like a low-budget film or a second-hand recording of a performance we wish we'd seen live. It adds vigor and muscle. The scale of the video manipulation matches the scale of the theater in which the actor is performing. Being taught...in such an engaging and powerful and compelling way--so you feel as though it matters--is exhilarating."
"The Stage Show," ABC Radio, Australia
"Not every playwright can make science-based stories sing. But Lauren M. Gunderson is not just any playwright."
Rich Fahey, On Boston Stages
"The play will intellectually challenge you at times, while tugging at your emotions and beliefs."
Don Fowler, Cranston Herald/Warwick Beacon
"Theater folks have been inventive...but nothing has been as engaging as actually going to the theater. Until now."
Kathie Raleigh, Pawtucket Times
"Most importantly, The Catastrophist narrates the life and struggles of a man at the forefront of viral pandemics, translated to the stage by one of America’s premiere playwrights. News reports tend to gloss over such profound personalities, and there’s no better time to understand where these scientists are coming from."
Robert Isenberg, Providence Monthly

Gallery

Cast & Creative

Cast
William DeMeritt
Nathan

Creative

Jasson Minadakis
Director