Shailene Woodley, known for her captivating performances in film and television, is stepping onto the Broadway stage for the first time in her career. Currently, she is starring in Cult of Love, a new play by Leslye Headland, which is currently in previews at the prestigious Helen Hayes Theater.
In a recent appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Woodley shared a nostalgic memory from her early acting days. In the Playbill for Cult of Love, she included a credit from her childhood, specifically a role in the 1995 Palmdale Community Theater production of Oliver Twist, where she portrayed one of Fagin’s Boys. This revelation surprised even her, as she initially thought she was making her stage debut.
“I didn’t know what to write,” Woodley confessed to Fallon. “This is the first time I’m doing a play, but then I was reminded by my father that it’s actually not my first play.” The actress humorously recounted an unfortunate incident from that production, where she contracted head lice from a costume, joking that it might have deterred her from pursuing theater until now.
As for Cult of Love, the play is directed by the acclaimed Trip Cullman and features an impressive ensemble cast that includes Zachary Quinto, Barbie Ferreira, Christopher Lowell, Mare Winningham, David Rasche, Molly Bernard, Roberta Colindrez, Rebecca Henderson, and Christopher Sears.
The narrative unfolds around the Dahl family, who reunite in their childhood home during the holiday season. This gathering is not just a festive celebration; it serves as a backdrop for the re-emergence of old conflicts and the surfacing of new issues. The four adult children, accompanied by their partners, attempt to uphold family traditions, including spontaneous caroling. However, the atmosphere is anything but harmonious, as tensions rise and dinner service drags on. The central question looms: will the love that binds the Dahls be sufficient to navigate their challenges, or could this Christmas mark their last together?
With previews having commenced on November 20, Cult of Love is poised to make a significant impact on Broadway. Tickets are available starting at $60, allowing audiences to experience this poignant exploration of family dynamics during the holiday season.
For those interested in a behind-the-scenes look, videos featuring the cast, including insights from Zachary Quinto and Shailene Woodley, are available, offering a glimpse into the creative process and themes of the play.
As the excitement builds around Cult of Love, the anticipation for Woodley’s Broadway debut continues to grow. The play not only highlights her return to the stage but also showcases the talents of a diverse and accomplished cast, promising a theatrical experience that resonates with audiences.
