Jaws of the Merman

For Immediate Release

Press contact:  Meghan Covington

[email protected], 917-300-9047

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

River’s Edge Theatre Company Invites Audiences to Break the Rules this Summer with the World Premiere of Jaws of the Merman

HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON, NY — River’s Edge Theatre Company (RETCo) is thrilled to announce Jaws of the Merman, an immersive and sensory storytelling experience. Created by River’s Edge Theatre Company’s Artistic Director Meghan Covington, Jaws of the Merman is Part fairy tale, part art installation, and part immersive adventure. The production blends movement, visual storytelling, original music, and sensory elements to create a theatrical experience that is both interdisciplinary and experimental.

Adapted from the folk tale by Franz Xaver Von Schönwerth and featuring original music by local composer Jon Hatch, The Jaws of the Merman tells the story of a small village by the water where swimming is prohibited. When the local women break the village rules, they mysteriously begin to change in unexpected ways. As the boundaries between myth and reality dissolve, audiences are brought on a sensory journey that breaks traditional rules of theatre.

At the center of the experience is composer Jon Hatch, who commands a sea of analog and digital synthesizers, weaving together an immersive score with a prerecorded storyteller (played by Traci Redmond) whose voice guides audiences through the tale. 

As with many RETCo productions, the work combines imaginative storytelling with themes that resonate beyond the stage. “Jaws of the Merman encourages audiences to question their connection with nature,” says Covington. “We wanted to create something that inspires people to evaluate old rules and habits surrounding environmental issues and sustainability. Can we find new routines that promote a healthier future for our planet?” In line with RETCo’s mission to inspire social change, 10% of ticket sales go to the nonprofit Riverkeeper, who fights to protect the Hudson River and New York City’s drinking supply. 

River’s Edge Theatre Co’s programing was made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

Performance Information

Dates:
July 16th 7pm and 8pm

July 17th 7pm and 8pm

July 18th 7pm and 8pm

July 19th 4pm and 5pm 

Location: River’s Edge Theatre Co Studio, 546 Warburton Ave, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY 

**Because the experience includes barefoot participation and audience movement through the space, comfortable clothing is recommended.

For tickets and additional information, visit https://www.riversedgetheatre.com/next