San Jose Repertory Theatre to Present LANDSCAPE WITH WEAPON, 6/19-7/13

San Jose Repertory Theatre presents, Landscape with Weapon, the American premiere of British playwright Joe Penhall's provocative collision of morality and intellectual property rights. This riveting examination of one man's private anguish and moral dilemma is a sobering look at the world of warfare, geopolitics and the impact of technology on individual choices and collective values. The show runs June 19 through July 13, and is directed by Rick Lombardo, San Jose Rep's Producing Artistic Director.

Are scientists morally responsible for how others use their inventions? Shining a spotlight on the controversial use of drones, the show finds Ned, a genius aerospace engineer, wrestling with this question after he develops drone aircraft technology that claims to revolutionize modern combat, eliminate human error, and lessen civilian casualties. As Ned's relationships deteriorate, his conscience kicks in and he questions his beliefs about war, the battle between profit and ethics, and personal responsibility.

"I can't think of a better place to stage this play than in our community at the forefront of how technology impacts the choices we make as individuals, communities and governments," said Rick Lombardo, San Jose Rep's Producing Artistic Director. "In our audience will be aerospace engineers, inventors and academics who wrestle with these issues of intellectual property rights, personal responsibility and the ethics of warfare, and I can't wait to engage in these conversations."

Penhall is an accomplished English playwright whose early work was championed by the Royal Court. The Daily Telegraph says Penhall "Belongs to the new wave of dramatists that has flooded British theatre with exciting work in recent years ... I have a hunch that his might prove the more enduring talent." He's amassed a critically acclaimed body of work for the stage and film. His wildly successful play Blue/Orange premiered at the National Theatre and went on to win numerous awards and was later adapted into a television show. His film adaptation of Cormac McCarthy's book, The Road, starring Viggo Mortensen, resulted in "Variety" naming him as one of their Top Ten Screenwriters to watch.

TICKETS range from $29 to $74 (prices subject to change). NEW THIS YEAR: 30 and Under Pricing. All tickets for individuals 30 years old or younger are 50% off the regular ticket price. Full-time students also receive 50% off each regular price ticket. Tickets can be purchased at www.SJRep.com, by calling 408-367-7255, or at the Box Office located at 101 Paseo de San Antonio in downtown San Jose.

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