Fiction, Reading Recovery Level 8, F&P Level E, DRA2 Level 8, Theme Prediction/Humor, Stage Early, Character N/A

Matthew Acciaccatura of Teaneck, New Jersey, begins his freshman year at NYU in the fall of 1995 with one goal in mind: to become cool. A former high school outcast, used to lumbering the hallways alone in oversize turtlenecks, Matt seems an unlikely candidate for such a transformation. Yet by dint of effort he lands the coveted position of promoter at one of the hottest clubs in New York in the heyday of rave music and Ecstasy. However, as “Magic” Matt rises to fame, portents of tragedy begin to appear, literally in the margins of the story. Footnotes from one Dr. Hans Mannheim, an imprisoned German academic obsessed with Matt’s dangerous trajectory, suggest that Matt is not as in control of his destiny as he might appear…. A gorgeously written archetypal tale of self-discovery (and self-deception) and a love letter to the enduring possibilities of New York City, The Answer Is Always Yes will keep readers guessing until its explosive climax.

Political dynamo Matt Bellinger understands he has an unyielding responsibility to work hard for the betterment of his community and the world around him. Life, he believes, should be built strictly on effort and tangibles, not an elusive faith. But that belief is challenged when a bill to spearhead volunteerism leads him to canvassing efforts at Detroit's legendary diner, Sal's Place, and a meeting with Heather Cavanaugh. His polar opposite, the street-smart beauty challenges his heart and perceptions. She's the head stylist at Optiva, a trendy, upscale hair salon in downtown Detroit, as well as a tireless volunteer giving back to the city she loves in honor of the God she serves. Love blooms, gradually shifting Matt's perceptions. But when a life-threatening illness in his family challenges that fledgling faith, will he be able to hold fast to his newfound beliefs? Will he discover that faith makes all things possible and love makes all things beautiful?

It's time you realised that your show is a thing of the past. It's dead. A fragment of history. This is the future and I need you to come on board. Their choice? To die onstage - or off it. Beautiful and bonkers - it's the clown show about totalitarianism you never knew you needed. Rhum + Clay's Project Dictator was informed and inspired by conversations with international artists living under authoritarian regimes. It returned for a UK tour after critically-acclaimed runs at New Diorama Theatre in April 2022, and at Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August 2022. Originally commissioned by New Diorama Theatre for its 10th Anniversary Season, Project Dictator was also supported using public funding from Arts Council England. This edition was published to coincide with the UK tour starting in September 2023.