Article by Anya Kai

Joshua Crone and Thoeger Hansen are a dynamic force in the world of theatre, bringing a unique blend of playwrighting, directing, producing, and acting to their projects. Their latest collaboration, “A House Divided,” explores the complexities of family dynamics amidst the backdrop of a politically and socially fractured America.

Joshua Crone: From Playwright to Theatre Builder

Joshua Crone’s journey in theatre began with a decisive choice at the age of 20: to be a playwright. However, Crone wasn’t content with simply submitting scripts and waiting for opportunities. He took control of his artistic destiny, learning to direct, produce, build sets and venues, and even make movies. This DIY spirit led him to establish Yellow Bicycle Theater, a black box space in Philadelphia. Named after the bicycle he used to park outside his apartment to make room for rehearsals and film shoots, Yellow Bicycle has become a hub for innovative theatre. Crone’s vision extends beyond Philadelphia, aiming to connect with the New York theatre scene, bringing shows like Thoeger’s “No Exit” and Megan Medley’s “Without God As My Lover” to the city and now taking his own work, “A House Divided” and “Ashes Ashes,” in the opposite direction.

Thoeger Hansen: From Actor to Director, Finding Focus in Grassroots Theatre

Thoeger Hansen brings a wealth of experience to “A House Divided,” having worked as a producer for several years and an actor for many more. Directing at this level represents a new chapter in his artistic journey, and he expresses excitement about working with Crone’s compelling script. Hansen’s path to theatre wasn’t always straightforward. He spent years navigating the challenges of the commercial/VO/print world before finding his true calling in grassroots New York theatre in 2019. This return to his roots, reminiscent of his early experiences with school plays and video production, reignited his passion. Hansen describes himself as a “gym rat” in the theatre world, finding joy in the daily grind of memorizing lines, practicing, and collaborating in the rehearsal process. This dedication and focus have been instrumental in his growth as an artist.

“A House Divided”: A Thanksgiving Play for a Divided America

“A House Divided” is a Thanksgiving play with a timely and resonant message. While Crone emphasizes that the play’s core themes are best articulated by its playwright, Hansen offers his perspective: the enduring power of human connection, particularly within families, even amidst deep political and social divisions.

Crone explains that the play was written in the tumultuous period leading up to the 2020 election and following the loss of his sister to cancer. Inspired by childhood Thanksgiving plays with his sister and their later adult disagreements, he wanted to create a play about a family gathering despite their differences. Set in 2021, a year marked by intense national division, the play fearlessly tackles a range of hot-button issues: mandates, Black Lives Matter, gender ideology, election integrity, and Trumpism. Crone’s goal was to present a balanced portrayal, avoiding straw-man arguments and ensuring that each character, with their flaws and finer qualities, has something at stake in these deeply personal debates.

The Power of Theatre to Bridge Divides

Both Crone and Hansen hope that audiences will be entertained by the play. Hansen expresses a desire for audiences to recognize the futility of the divisions that hinder human connection. Crone’s more playful hope is that any post-show arguments sparked by the play will ultimately lead to reconciliation.

They both believe that the recent election has little impact on the play’s relevance. Hansen points out that the play is set in the recent past and that the issues it explores would remain relevant regardless of the 2024 election outcome. Crone succinctly states that the play’s themes of division and conflict would persist regardless of which side prevails.

Looking Ahead: “Unicycle” and “Ashes Ashes”

Crone’s upcoming projects include “Unicycle,” a festival of solo shows at Yellow Bicycle Theater during Philly Theatre Week, featuring several shows from New York. He is also preparing for the New York premiere of his Hiroshima play, “Ashes Ashes,” at the American Theatre of Actors. This production, originally planned for the 75th anniversary of the bombing but delayed due to COVID, will coincide with the 80th anniversary in August. Hansen may also be involved in “Ashes Ashes” later in the year and is exploring other potential projects. For now, however, his focus remains firmly on “A House Divided.”

Joshua Crone and Thoeger Hansen represent a powerful force in contemporary theatre, creating works that not only entertain but also challenge audiences to confront the complexities of our time. Their commitment to exploring difficult topics with nuance and empathy makes their work both timely and essential.