Public's Head of Passes extends run to 1 May 2016

The Public Theater have announced a second extension of the limited run of Tarell Alvin McCraney's new play Head of Passes, which began previews at the Public's Newman Theater on 15 March 2016, before an official opening on 28 March. The limited engagement was originally scheduled through to 17 April 2016, then initially extended through to 24 April and will now play its final performance on 1 May 2016.

Synopsis: "At the mouth of the Mississippi River, Shelah's family and friends have come to celebrate her birthday and save her from a leaking roof. But in this contemporary parable inspired by the Book of Job, unexpected events turn the reunion into the ultimate test of faith and love. As her world seems to collapse around her, Shelah must fight to survive the rising flood of life's greatest challenges."

The cast of Head of Passes includes Phylicia Rashad (Shelah), Alana Arenas (Cookie), Francois Battiste (Aubrey), Kyle Beltran (Crier), J. Bernard Calloway (Spencer), Robert Joy (Dr. Anderson), Jonathan Earl Peck (Creaker Johnson) and Arnetia Walker (Mae).

This new drama about family, acceptance and the power of faith is directed by Tina Landau, and features scenic design by G.W. Mercier, costume design by Toni-Leslie James, lighting design by Jeff Croiter and sound design by Rob Milburn and Michael Bodeen.

Phylicia Rashad was last seen at The Public in 'The Story' by Tracey Scott Wilson in 2003, as well as in 'Helen' in 2002, and 'Everybody's Rudy' in 1999. Her theatre credits include 'Jelly's Last Jam', 'Into The Woods', 'Dreamgirls', and 'The Wiz'.

- by Tom Millward