Two women forge an unexpected bond in the world premiere of Smile, a new play from IAMA Theatre Company. A kid from the inner city whose mother moved her in order to attend a White, affluent public school in Philadelphia’s Main Line, Rachel is a young girl still dreaming of her first kiss; she’s ill-equipped to navigate a world which defines her solely by gender, race and class. When an “incident” at school lands Rachel in the guidance counselor’s office, her situation sparks the young mother’s own questions and insecurities. Soon, Rachel and Helen find themselves developing a complicated relationship.
Written by Melissa Jane Osborne
Directed by Michelle Bossy
Starring Isabella Feliciana, Ronit Kathuria, Andria Kozica, John Lavelle
Presented by IAMA Theatre Company, Stefanie Black, artistic director
The creative team for Smile includes scenic designer Yuri Okahana-Benson; lighting designer Dan Weingarten; projections designer Sean Cawelti; properties designer Heath Harper; costume designer Vicki Conrad; and casting director Jordan Bass. IAMA ensemble member Anna LaMadrid is associate director and dramaturg. Grant Gerrard is the production manager and Kimberly Sanchez Garrido is the stage manager. Tiffany Moon and Kat Kim produce for IAMA Theatre Company.