“Cost of Living” deals with disability and interpersonal relationships
The play “Cost of Living” deals with the complex relationship between two pairs of people – one with and one without disabilities.
The acclaimed play “Cost of Living” by Polish-American playwright Martyna Majok will be performed at the Jasmine Theater in Shanghai from August 31 to September 8.
“Cost of Living” premiered at the Williamstown Theatre Festival in the USA in 2016, won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2018 and was nominated for the 2023 Tony Award for Best Play.
The play explores the complex relationships between two pairs of people – one with and one without disabilities. The story interweaves the lives of Eddie, an unemployed middle-aged truck driver, and his ex-wife Ani, who has been paralysed since an accident, and those of John, a young schoolboy with cerebral palsy, and his carer Jess.
It examines how they deal with physical and emotional challenges, societal expectations, and the need for human connection.
The play explores how the characters deal with physical and emotional challenges, societal expectations, and the need for human connection.
The Chinese version of Cost of Living was produced by the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Center and directed by Zha Wenhao. For him, the play is more than just a portrayal of disability; it is a deep dive into human nature and explores how love, trust and understanding shape our lives.
“The characters in ‘Cost of Living’ are often overlooked, and their daily struggles are immense,” explains Zha. “Although the play tells the story of four Americans, the themes of loneliness, pain and the need for comfort are universal.”
The Chinese version of “Cost of Living” is directed by Zha Wenhao.
Playwright Majok, who emigrated to the United States from Poland at a young age, is known for her insightful, humorous, and complex portrayals of marginalized communities. Majok holds degrees from the University of Chicago, the Yale School of Drama, and the Juilliard School, and her work is celebrated for its exploration of the lives and stories of underrepresented individuals.
The Chinese version of “Cost of Living” stars actors Wei Chunguang and Mai Duo from the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Center, stand-up comedian Zhang Jiaxin and dancer Liu Yan.
Both Zhang and Liu have disabilities and are making their theater debut. Their dedication brings deep authenticity to their roles as they build a deep connection with the characters they portray.
To ensure accessibility, there will be a limited number of wheelchair spaces at all performances and a sign language interpreter will be available at the September 2 show.
“Cost of Living” will be performed at the Jasmine Theatre from August 31 to September 8.
Event info:
Date: August 31 to September 8
Tickets: 180-580 yuan
Venue: Jasmine Theater 茉莉花剧场
Address: 247 Beihai Rd 北海路247号
