Knoxville TN, October 20, 2025
News Summary
Theatre Knoxville Downtown is showcasing a new production of ‘The Birds’ by Conor McPherson until November 2nd. This adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s short story explores themes of loneliness and human relationships. Directed by Shelby Frye, the play features an intimate cast, each portraying characters wrestling with their own emotional struggles in a haunting cabin setting. Show times include weekends with matinees. Tickets are available at the box office and online.
Theatre Knoxville Downtown is presenting a new production of “The Birds” by playwright Conor McPherson, running until November 2nd. This adaptation is based on British author Daphne du Maurier’s 1952 short story and Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963 film. The production emphasizes the strain that unexpected traumas place on human relationships, moving beyond the fear of birds to focus on the fear of loneliness.
Director Shelby Frye, who has a fear of birds, points out that the essence of the play lies in the characters’ emotional responses rather than the avian threats. The cast consists of four actors, exploring themes of loneliness, skepticism, and jealousy through their performances. The setting is designed as a rural New England cabin by a lake, featuring antique furnishings that contribute to a cozy yet unsettling ambiance, amplified by sinister red lighting.
The characters in the play include:
- Diane, played by Sarah Campbell, is a published author who logs events in her diary via voiceover.
- Nat, played by Casey Cain, has a traumatic past involving involuntary institutionalization.
- Julia, portrayed by Kelby Cox, embodies innocence and hope amidst chaos.
- Tierney, played by Joseph Johnson, is a menacing farmer who threatens Diane.
The play captures the dynamic interactions among the characters, revealing their emotional complexities. A notable scene is Nat’s birthday party, portrayed with convincing displays of inebriation and emotional turmoil, highlighting the characters’ struggles with their internal demons.
The production has garnered attention for its ability to merge dramatic elements with a profound exploration of human relationships. Showings are scheduled for Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 PM, and matinees on Sundays at 2:30 PM. Tickets are available at the box office located at 800 S. Central Street or online at Theatre Knoxville’s website.
FAQ
What is the production being presented by Theatre Knoxville Downtown?
Theatre Knoxville Downtown is presenting a new production of “The Birds” by playwright Conor McPherson, running until November 2nd.
What is this adaptation based on?
This adaptation is based on British author Daphne du Maurier’s 1952 short story and Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963 film.
What themes does the production emphasize?
The production emphasizes the strain that unexpected traumas place on human relationships.
Who is the director of the play?
The director is Shelby Frye.
What is the setting of the play?
The setting is a rural New England cabin by a lake, equipped with antique furnishings.
Key Features of the Production
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | The Birds |
| Playwright | Conor McPherson |
| Based On | Daphne du Maurier’s 1952 short story & Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963 film |
| Director | Shelby Frye |
| Setting | Rural New England cabin by a lake |
| Run Dates | Until November 2nd |
| Show Times | Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 PM, with matinees on Sundays at 2:30 PM |
| Cast | Sara Campbell, Casey Cain, Kelby Cox, Joseph Johnson |
| Location | 800 S. Central Street |
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Additional Resources
- Theatre Knoxville Downtown’s “The Birds” Review
- Sue Bird: Seattle Storm’s Legendary Leader
- Sue Bird: Hall of Fame Inductee
- Sue Bird on the Reality of Women’s Basketball
- Sue Bird Leads Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame Class
- Wikipedia: The Birds (play)
- Google Search: The Birds play
- Google Scholar: The Birds Conor McPherson
- Encyclopedia Britannica: The Birds (theater play)
- Google News: The Birds play reviews
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
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