An Early History of Fire is set in a small Midwestern town at the tipping point of the early 1960s. A few years out of high school, Danny finds his days defined by friendship and loyalty – but a confusing new world encroaches in the form of Karen, back from college in the East, alluring and unsettling because of all she has learned. Awhirl in longing and eyeing a chance for radical change, Danny struggles against the grip of his immigrant father, who clings to his only son while mourning a vanished world of lost prestige. Poignant in its portrayal of the loss of America’s innocence, this world premiere marks David Rabe’s return to The New Group, following the company’s acclaimed 2005 revival of Hurlyburly.
Gordon Clapp, known for his Emmy-winning role as Detective Greg Medavoy on "NYPD Blue," brought his extensive stage experience to "An Early History of Fire," showcasing his talent honed in performances like "Glengarry Glen Ross" on Broadway and various roles in regional theater. more...
Erin Darke, known for her roles in TV series such as Good Girls Revolt and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, was a standout in An Early History of Fire. more...
Theo Stockman, known for his roles on Broadway in Green Day’s American Idiot and The Public’s revival of HAIR, starred in the world premiere of David Rabe’s An Early History of Fire with The New Group. more...
Production Team
Ken Dow Sound Designer
David Anzuelo Fight Director
Jo Bonney Director
Lap Chi Chu Lighting Designer
Doug Paulson Dialect Coach
Theresa Squire Costume Designer
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