Richard Nelson Knihy

Set against the backdrop of the summer of 2020, this collection of three plays captures the Apple Family's experiences during a time of isolation due to the pandemic and social unrest following George Floyd's murder. Through virtual gatherings on Zoom, they navigate humor, personal struggles, and shared grief while addressing themes of connection and resilience. The characters engage in lighthearted exchanges about everyday life, revealing their vulnerabilities as they face a chaotic world outside. The book includes an introduction and afterword by the author.

Focusing on the Old Testament, this volume provides an in-depth commentary on the book of Joshua, exploring its themes, historical context, and theological significance. It delves into the narrative of Israel's conquest of Canaan, examining key events and characters while offering insights into the implications for faith and leadership. The commentary aims to enhance understanding and appreciation of this pivotal biblical text.

"A majestic new play." Christopher Kelly, Star Ledger "ILLYRIA...works its way between your ribs." Sara Holdren, New York Magazine "ILLYRIA affords distinctive...pleasures that no one these days does better than Mr Nelson. I mean the sense of experiencing life, in all its trivia and eventfulness, happening in a very specific moment, among people who know one another well." Ben Brantley, The New York Times "Uses the stage not as a pedestal but as a field of whispered dreams." Michael Shulman, The New Yorker "Chekovian discussions unfold against a subtly evoked backdrop of lurking menace. At stake is not just free Shakespeare but the characters' livelihoods amid ongoing McCarthyite witch-hunts..." Max McGuinness, Financial Times "Playgoers are well aware of Nelson's excellence at probing the hopes and illusions of modern-day characters. Here, he takes the larger-than-life Papp & pals and places them into something of a backstage morality play with sheathes of undercurrents worthy of old Will." Steven Suskin, Huffington Post "ILLYRIA's artists catch us up in their rich, reeling talk. But the scale and scope here is vigorously human..." Alan Scherstuhl, The Village Voice

In clear and concise language and drawings, these booklets describe the common species the reader is likely to come across in Southwestern terrain.

Madame Melville explores the poignant relationship between a fifteen-year-old American boy, Carl, and his captivating teacher, Claudie Melville, set against the backdrop of pre-revolutionary Paris in 1966. The play delves into themes of art, music, and the bittersweet realization of life's wonders. In contrast, The General from America offers a deep psychological portrait of Benedict Arnold, highlighting his emotional turmoil and the conflicts between love and loyalty, ultimately leading to a haunting sense of compromise and despair.

Set in ancient Rome, this work explores the complex dynamics between Brutus, Cassius, and Cicero as they grapple with their loyalty to Julius Caesar, whom they once revered but now view with disdain. The characters engage in intense discussions about power, loyalty, and the potential threats posed by Caesar's actions to their nation. The themes resonate with contemporary issues of power and its abuse, making the narrative both timely and relevant. The play premiered at the Public Theater in New York City in March 2008.

In clear and concise language and drawings, these booklets describe the common species the reader is likely to come across in Southwestern terrain.

Nominated for Olivier Award, Best Comedy "Behind [Nelson's] play lurks the daunting question of what we actually go to drama for. What, he asks, is its value if it doesn't modify and affect our behavior? ...Behind Mr Nelson's very good jokes [reminiscent of an American David Lodge] lies a real fear that we increasingly divorce art from life and treat culture as something devoured rather than digested." Michael Billington, The Guardian "Funny and thought provoking...leaves one hungry for me." Charles Spencer, Daily Telegraph "A delight." Paul Taylor, The Independent "A gripping evening. The humor is based on genuine insight, and while the characters talks a lot, the unspoken tensions tend to be even sharper than the spoken ones. There are some painful moments and some oddly moving ones... But comedy wins out in the end..." John Gross, Sunday Telegraph

Set against the backdrop of a pandemic, this play reunites The Apple Family as they navigate their quarantined lives through Zoom. The characters engage in meaningful conversations about everyday challenges like grocery shopping and lost friendships, while also exploring new possibilities for the future. The work reflects the importance of human connection and the role of theater during uncertain times, highlighting how dialogue can offer solace and hope in a world that feels unsettled.