PHOTOS: Theatre NOVA in ANn Arbor Announces World Premiere of “Dry Summer”

Theatre NOVA, Ann Arbor’s resident nonprofit professional theatre specializing in new plays presents the World Premiere of “Dry Summer” by Robert Axelrod, running October 10 – November 2. There will be a talkback with playwright Robert Axelrod after the 3pm matinee on Saturday, October 11. 

Depressed and longing to get his life back on track, gay, Jewish, twenty-something Ethan returns to his Ann Arbor family home. When he takes a job as a “sober companion” to his recovering alcoholic neighbor, an unconventional friendship ensues. Full of Ann Arbor references, this charming and nostalgic play takes us all home. 

Playwright Robert Axelrod says: “’Dry Summer’ is, in many ways, a love letter to Ann Arbor, the community where I was born and raised. This city has a vibrancy and vitality that is hard to put into words, but I’ve tried to capture that essence, in some small way, through this play. It feels like an absolute dream to have the world premiere here at Theatre NOVA.”He adds: “This play tackles some very heavy topics, but my greatest desire is for audiences to walk away with a renewed sense of hope. Life is filled with challenges, but it’s also worth recognizing and celebrating the quiet moments of triumph along the way. Mostly, I hope audiences leave with a bit more hope in their hearts.” 

Directed by Brittany Connors, the cast features Sarah Burcon, Brian Cox, Laura Mandernack and Nick Smathers. The production team includes Sam Schikora (set, lights), Toni Davison (costumes), and Elise Blochwitz (stage manager). 

Director Brittany Connors says: “’Dry Summer’ is a story I think almost anyone can connect with. For the LGBTQ community, it reflects the challenge of showing our true selves, and the courage it takes to let others in. At its core, the play is about identity, authenticity, and the joy and relief that come with living openly. My hope is that audiences leave with both a sense of empathy and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of embracing who we are.” 

Producing Artistic Director Briana O’Neal says: “When you engage with a world premiere play like “Dry Summer,” you are providing a space for new voices to bring their stories to the stage. We’re very lucky to have an Ann Arbor playwright bring this very Ann Arbor story to our stage. The Jewish community and the LGBTQ+ community are vital parts of the culture of Ann Arbor, and Robert Axelrod has captured a slice of life with “Dry Summer” that reflects the intersections of this community.” 

“Dry Summer” will run October 10 – November 2 at Theatre NOVA (410 W Huron St, Ann Arbor). Performances are Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 3pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 2pm. General admission tickets are $30, $25 for 65 and over, and $15 for students with student IDs at the door. Tickets may be purchased online at www.TheatreNOVA.org or in person one hour before each performance. Seating in the theater will begin 30 minutes before each performance. There is ample free parking and quick access to the city’s restaurants, bars, bakeries, and coffee shops. New patrons can find Theatre NOVA across Huron Street from Ann Arbor’s YMCA through a parking lot entrance on the north side of the street. 

Theatre NOVA presents the world premiere of “Dry Summer” 1

Theatre NOVA’s mission is to raise awareness of the value and excitement of new plays and playwrights and to provide resources for playwrights to develop their craft by importing, exporting, and developing new work. This activity is supported by the Shubert Foundation. 

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FACT SHEET 

WHO: 

Playwright – Robert Axelrod 

Cast: 

Susan – Sarah Burcon 

Gary – Brian Cox 

Diane – Laura Mandernack 

Ethan – Nick Smathers 

Production Team: 

Director – Brittany Connors 

Stage Manager – Elise Blochwitz 

Set Designer – Sam Schikora 

Lighting Designer – Sam Schikora 

Costumer – Toni Davison 

Sound Designer – Brittany Connors 

Dramaturg – Aya Galang 

Properties – Brittany Connors and Briana O’Neal 

Theatre Nova Staff 

Carla Milarch, Founding Artistic Director 

Briana O’Neal, Producing Artistic Director, Resident Stage Manager 

Shelby R. Seeley, Producing Artistic Director, Literary Manager 

Diane Hill, Producing Artistic Director 

Becky Fox, Business Manager, Director of Education 

Sarah Elisabeth Brown, House Manager 

Lindsey Brown, Summer Camp Director 

WHAT: “Dry Summer” 

Theatre NOVA, 410 W Huron St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103 

Box office: www.TheatreNOVA.org Tickets: General $30 / $25 for 65 and over / $15 for Students 

WHERE: 

Theatre NOVA, 410 W Huron, Ann Arbor, MI 48103 

ON THE INTERNET: 

www.TheatreNOVA.org , 

http://www.facebook.com/theatrenova 

http://www.instagram.com/a2theatrenova/ 

https://www.tiktok.com/@a2theatrenova 

https://www.youtube.com/@theatrenova8948 

WHEN: PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE: 

October 10-November 2, 2025 

Theatre NOVA presents the world premiere of “Dry Summer” 2

Friday, October 10 at 8pm 

Saturday, October 11 at 3pm (talkback with playwright Robert Axelrod) and 8pm Sunday, October 12 at 2pm 

Friday, October 17 at 8pm 

Saturday, October 18 at 3pm and 8pm 

Sunday, October 19 at 2pm 

Friday, October 24 at 8pm 

Saturday, October 25 at 3pm and 8pm 

Sunday, October 26 at 2pm 

Friday, October 31 at 8pm 

Saturday, November 1 at 3pm and 8pm 

Sunday, November 2 at 2pm