Network

Adapted for the Stage by Lee Hall

Based on the Paddy Chayefsky film

Directed by Ashley Kelly Tata

Sep 20 - Nov 3

Main Stage Theater 144

Sponsored by Kate & Mark Reid

A potent and provocative new stage adaptation of the cinematic masterpiece.

Veteran news anchor Howard Beale isn't pulling in the viewers. But when his on-air breakdown sparks a revolution, Howard suddenly becomes the biggest thing on TV. The 1976 film by Paddy Chayefsky dominated the Academy Awards and was a prophetic masterpiece. Nearly 50 years later, this new, acclaimed stage adaptation remains a potent and provocative work of art as the world grapples with truth, authenticity, and the search for meaning in a digital age. 

"Critics' Pick" - Boston Theater Critics' Association

"Thanks to the stunning and perceptive direction by Ashley Kelly Tata, the Umbrella Stage Company production is a visual and visceral masterpiece of theatre." - Kevin T. Baldwin, METRMAG

"As stirring and thought provoking today as it was during the bicentennial...a first-rate production [with] a strong cast" - Joseph Fahey, Boston City Paper

"Network is a cleverly executed and gripping production" - Jeanne Denizard, Sleepless Critic

"Bill Mootos delivers. Productions like Network remind us that the primary purpose of theater is entertain, even if it does make us think. See it." - Michael Hoban, Theater Mirror

"Network remains gripping..." - The Hollywood Reporter

"...takes on fresh fury in a sizzling stage production...that feels less satiric but more urgent..." - Variety

CONTENT ADVISORY & TRANSPARENCY: Network contains adult language, partial nudity, and themes of self harm/suicide, gun violence, terrorism and racism. Age recommendation: 12 and older.

WATCH THE TRAILER

ABOUT THE DIRECTOR

Ashley Kelly Tata (they/ze) is a director whose works have been called “fervently inventive,” and like something that “reaches out across the centuries and punches you in the throat” in the New York Times “extraordinarily powerful” by the LA Times, and a notable production of the decade in The New Yorker. These multi-media works of theater, contemporary opera, performance, cyberformance, live music and immersive experiences have been presented in venues and festivals throughout the US and internationally including The Wexner, The Big Sing Festival in The Netherlands, the Miller Theater, Carnegie Hall, the Fisher Center’s Summerscape Festival at Bard, Theatre for a New Audience, PS21, LA Opera, Austin Opera, National Sawdust, EMPAC, The Crossing the Line Festival, the Holland Festival, the Big Ears Festival, The Prelude Festival and The National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing. Tata's work has been supported with residencies at BAM, Mercury Store, Coffey Street Studios, EMPAC and with a Map Grant. Tata’s collaborators have included the composers Kate Soper, Ted Hearne, David T. Little, Bora Yoon, Rob Johanson, the playwright Jerry Lieblich and the collective Anonymous Ensemble, among others. Ze earned an MFA in directing at Columbia University under the mentorship of Anne Bogart and Brian Kulick and is currently a Visiting Assistant Professor and the Artistic Producer of Theater & Performance at Bard College. Upcoming: Euripides’ Orestes at The New School. tatatime.live

Learn more about Ashley Kelly Tata

WHAT PREVIEW AUDIENCE MEMBERS ARE SAYING

Network is sharp, well-paced, and full of energy. The piece feels especially powerful and prescient today in the midst of a contentious presidential election. This stellar cast, supported by brilliant direction and design, will have you on your feet, shouting right along with Howard! - Christine N.

Absolutely LOVED how they created the feeling of the 70s in every aspect.  I felt like I was in my living room watching the evening news in 1975. The acting was top notch. - Joe P

Thoroughly enjoyable and thought-provoking. - Andrew C

I've been impressed by every production I've seen at The Umbrella so far, and Network was no exception. Concord is lucky to have access to such a deep talent pool. - Steve B

UPCOMING SPECIAL ENGAGEMENTS

• #DinnerAndAShow Thursday Night Out Packages! - Thursdays in Concord are now a fun and easy entertainment Date Night thanks to optional pre-show dinners here at The Umbrella provided by Nosh restaurant and the Concord Market! Coming straight from work? Park free at The Umbrella, then take a load off and enjoy a delicious catered dinner, pick up beverage at concessions, and explore our free art galleries at your ease until it’s time for curtain! ​
  Graze Box Dinner Menu (items will be packaged separately and served in a box):
  - Honey Glazed Skewers (Chicken or Tofu), Onions, Pepper, Zucchini
  - Sweet Potato with Cranberry Salad
  - Quinoa
  - Pita Chips with Hummus
  - Concord Market Dessert Treat
• Sunday, October 13, 2024 3PM - Post-show Talkback & Kid-Care Performance - The Umbrella is pleased to offer our Kid-Care Show Program, giving parents and caregivers an opportunity to attend select performances while their child(ren) engage in art activities inspired by the production. This program aims to provide better access to arts and culture events and create a shared experience opportunity for families. Spaces are limited and can be reserved alongside ticket purchases. Audience members are invited to stay after the show for a special talkback with director Ashley Kelly Tata and Tufts University Film & Media Studies Program Director Tasha Oren.
• Thursday, October 24, 2024 - Post-show Talkback

Also of Interest

• Media Release: The Umbrella Season Opens with Fiery “Network” Adaptation
• Review: 4 Stars - Paddy Chayefsky's "Network"
  Kevin T. Baldwin, METRMag
• Review: Network Still Mad As Hell
  Bob Verini, Verini Views
• Strong Performances Lift Umbrella Arts’ Ambitious "Network"
  Mike Hoban, Theater Mirror
• Take 5 Q&A with Director Ashley Kelly Tata
• Network Digital Program

* Network photo credits: Top: Jim Sabitus; Below: Tim Gurczak