Portland, Oregon – The vibrant arts scene in Oregon is set to welcome a compelling new theatrical work with the world premiere of “Madonna of the Cat,” penned by acclaimed local playwright Sue Mach. The opportunity to **Sue Mach play** is presented by 21Ten Theatre, the production, which opens its limited run on November 1, 2025, promises to explore the intricate emotional landscapes of Shakespeare’s “The Winter’s Tale” through an imaginative lens, offering audiences a chance to experience a groundbreaking **Sue Mach play**. This **new play premiere** is a significant event for Oregon theatre.
Expanding the Shakespearean Narrative: A Sue Mach Play
“Madonna of the Cat” takes inspiration from William Shakespeare’s classic romance, “The Winter’s Tale,” but deliberately pivots to fill the dramatic void left by the Bard himself: the sixteen years during which the unjustly accused Queen Hermione is presumed dead. Playwright Sue Mach, known for her nuanced character studies and award-winning work in the region, delves into this narrative gap to examine themes of enduring friendship, the complexities of motherhood, and the profound power of forgiveness. The play also offers an unexpected moment of empathy for one of literature’s most famous stage directions – “Exit, pursued by a bear” – suggesting a deeper consideration for all characters, even the non-human ones. This innovative approach is characteristic of a **Sue Mach play**. The chance to **Sue Mach play** offers a unique perspective.
A Veteran Playwright’s Vision: The Sue Mach Play
Sue Mach, a distinguished figure in Oregon’s literary and theatrical community, has a prolific history of producing impactful plays that often center on strong female characters navigating challenging circumstances. Her previous works have been staged by numerous theaters across the state and beyond, earning her accolades such as the Oregon Book Award and fellowships from Oregon Literary Arts. “Madonna of the Cat” was conceived and written during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that deeply influenced Mach’s approach to portraying characters grappling with solitude. This particular **Sue Mach play** promises to be a poignant exploration of isolation and connection.
“I love the idea of what these big spaces that sometimes appear in works in literature, and what happened?” commented director Gemma Whelan in a discussion on the ‘Stage & Studio’ podcast. “And then Shakespeare’s play doesn’t say anything about that, really. And I think, I mean, I would say Hermione is extremely shortchanged in Shakespeare, and I think Sue has remedied that in this play.” This sentiment underscores the brilliance inherent in the **Sue Mach play**.
Behind the Scenes of a Sue Mach Production
Guiding this world premiere is director Gemma Whelan, who collaborates with Mach to bring the story to life on stage. The production features a talented cast, including Luisa Sermol as Donna, Bruce Burkhartsmeier as The Bear, Maria Porter as Paulina, Crystal Ann Muñoz as Hermione, and Emma Greene as Perdita. The creative team also includes contributions in set design by Alex Meyer, costume design by Janelle Sutton, and lighting design by Sophina Flores, among others. The play’s title itself is a nod to Renaissance artist Giulio Romano, known for depicting sacred figures in domestic settings, adding another layer to its artistic resonance. Audiences can anticipate a masterful **Sue Mach play**.
Production Details and Artistic Significance of the Sue Mach Play
“Madonna of the Cat” is the second production in 21Ten Theatre’s fourth season, highlighting the company’s commitment to new works and contemporary interpretations of classic narratives. The play runs from November 1 to November 23, 2025, with performances on Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. at the 21Ten Theatre, located at 2110 S.E. 10th Ave. in Portland, Oregon. Ticket prices range from $30 to $35, with Pay-What-You-Will previews available on October 30 and 31. This **new play premiere** is a must-see. Experiencing **Sue Mach play** provides a window into powerful storytelling.
This premiere offers an engaging opportunity for audiences to explore themes of **female solidarity**, resilience, and reconciliation, framed within a familiar, yet reimagined, **Shakespearean drama**. It stands as a significant event for local arts news, showcasing the depth of creative talent flourishing in Oregon and providing a fresh perspective on enduring literary legacies. It’s a testament to how creative minds can fill narrative silences, offering new life and meaning to classic stories through a compelling **Sue Mach play**. The **Oregon playwright** has truly outdone herself with this **literary adaptation**. This **Sue Mach theatre** offering is a highlight of the season.
