Ensemble Theatre Bringing Steinbeck's "East of Eden" to the Stage

An adaptation of one of John Steinbeck’s most decorated novels is playing at Ensemble Theatre as part of their ongoing 39th season with the current production of “East of Eden” making its Ohio premier on the stages of the Cleveland Heights theatre.

Adapted by Chicago theatre legend Frank Galati and directed by Ensemble artist Ian Wolfgang Hinz, the epic play tells the story of the attempts of the Trask family to set roots in Salinas Valley, CA. Hinz knows the significance of the novel’s story will ring true with audiences who have come to expect great things from Ensemble’s productions of classic works.

“’East of Eden’ is widely accepted as John Steinbeck's greatest work, and American Classics have always been a part of Ensemble's core mission. With past productions like ‘The Great Gatsby’ and now ‘East of Eden,’ we have been able to build a bridge to classic literature through theatrical adaptations,” Hinz said. “The adaptation is archetypal and familiar at the same time, and it captures the spirit and story that have made ‘East of Eden’ a classic novel since 1952.”

A biblical allegory and family epic, the play offers up themes of good vs. evil, love and loss, and the human quest to emerge from past sins. Hinz sees the production offering up a unique experience for audiences. “There is nothing like live theatre when it comes to audience experience, and to be able to experience this great story in an immediate visceral setting opens up audiences for conversations as a shared experience.”

Starring Cleveland-based actors Dana Hart (Sam Hamilton), Scott Miller (Adam Trask), Jill Levin (Kate), Joy Cayabyab (Lee), Kyle Huff (Caleb), August Scarpelli (Aron), Leah Smith (Abra Bacon), Greg White (Mr. Bacon), Val Young (Mrs. Bacon), Whit Lowell (Will Hamilton), Sarah Blubaugh (Eva), and Mia Radabaugh (Nurse), “East of Eden” runs through November 11 on Ensemble’s Mainstage at 2843 Washington Blvd. in the Coventry PEACE Campus.

“East of Eden” performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 2pm.

After “East of Eden,” Ensemble will co-produce Shaharazad Theatre Company’s new adaptation of “Around the World in 80 Days” running November 30 – December 16.

For tickets and more information you can visit EnsembleTheatreCLE.org, call 216.321.2930, or email info@ensemble-theatre.org.