New Canon Theatre announces its new, incredibly ambitious fourth season.

In 2024, New Canon Theatre rocked the world of performing art in Monterey County, putting the bar very high. Lacking local competition when it comes to adult, serious—even if not serious at all—theater, for 2025, New Canon decided to challenge itself. 

Season 4 (May 2025 to February 2026) is titled "Identity and Conflict" and includes six performances, major and minor, from iconic Iliad and Othello, through contemporary plays, Life Sucks (rework of Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya) and Appropriate by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, to New Canon’s cabaret weekend and New Works Festival, where brand new plays are being presented, often for the first time.

"Identity and Conflict" delves into the complexities of heritage, identity and societal tensions. Productions range from ancient Greek myth to modern American drama, with the goal of sparking thought-provoking dialogue and celebrate Monterey County's artistic community. 

“In 2025, our exploration of identity and conflict promises to engage audiences with compelling stories that reflect the complexities of our day and age,” said New Canon Founding Artistic Director J. Matthew Gordon in a press release. “These selected stories resonate deeply in our current landscape and invite us to reflect on who we are and how we connect with one another. I invite all to join us on this transformative journey, as we share these powerful narratives that will spark conversations and foster understanding in our expanding and diverse community.”

Set in the Regency period, Othello will draw sharp parallels between the rigid social hierarchies of that era and the systematic racism that still permeates our society today. An Iliad will also intersect with Monterey County school systems to offer workshops and performances for students, and Appropriate will explore difficult family relationships.

Venues and directors will be announced soon, as well as auditions—so stay tuned for more. newcanontheatre.org