Jagged Little Pill: Southern California Premiere | Out of the Box Theatre

by ethan.brook News Editor

Out of the Box Theatre company to Debut inclusive Production of “Jagged Little Pill

The Out of the Box Theatre Company is set to launch its fifteenth anniversary season with a groundbreaking Southern California regional premiere of “Jagged Little Pill,” the stage adaptation inspired by Alanis MorissetteS iconic Grammy Award-winning album. This production distinguishes itself by prioritizing accessibility and portrayal, promising a uniquely engaging theatrical experience for a diverse audience.

Did you know? – Alanis Morissette’s “Jagged Little Pill” album, released in 1995, remains one of the best-selling albums of all time, selling over 33 million copies worldwide. The stage adaptation premiered on Broadway in 2019.

A New Voice on Stage: Integrating American Sign Language

A key element of this production is the seamless integration of american Sign Language (ASL) into the storytelling. The company is collaborating with local interpreter Summer Kai and Pro Bono ASL to achieve this, and has cast Joseph Saraceni-a Deaf actor-in the role of “Nick.” “This casting choice opens new doors for how we see and experience storytelling on stage,” explained a company member. “It’s an exciting moment for inclusive theatre and for audiences who want to see the world reflected more fully in the arts.”

Stellar Cast Brings Healy Family to Life

The production boasts a talented cast led by Christy Candler, known for her work in the original broadway production of Wicked, as “Mary Jane.” She will be joined by auriaa as “Frankie,” alongside Lauren Barette, Brandi Davis, Miranda Guzman-Shrake, Megan Hanson, Kyle Hayes, Bec Hyde as “Jo,” Erika Mireya Cruz as “Bella,” Will Muse as “Andrew,” Andrew Nuñez, Caroline Pugliese, Solomon Stewart, Ben Thomas as “Phoenix,” Raymond Wallenthin as “Steve,” Dalton Weaver as “Nick’s Voice,” and Kira Wefers. The narrative centers on the Healy family, exploring the complexities that arise when fractures appear in a seemingly perfect life, forcing them to confront issues of identity, consent, addiction, and community.

Pro tip: – “Jagged Little Pill” tackles arduous subject matter. Consider the content warnings before attending, as the show contains strong language, adult themes, drug use, and depictions of sexual violence.

Performance Details and Ticketing Information

Performances of “Jagged Little Pill” will run from November 14-23, 2025, at the Center Stage Theater in Santa Barbara, California. A special ASL-interpreted performance, followed by a post-show discussion with the cast and interpreters, is scheduled for November 16th. Tickets are available at the Center Stage Theater box office, either online at www.centerstagetheater.org or by phone at (805) 963-0408. Potential audience members should be advised that the production contains strong language, explores adult themes, depicts drug use, and includes moments of sexual violence, and is thus recommended for ages 13 and up.

Reader question: – What impact do you think inclusive casting, like the inclusion of a Deaf actor, will have on the future of theater? Share your thoughts!

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