The People’s Theatre (previously known as People’s Theatre Project), LatinX Playwrights Circle, and Boundless Theatre Company will present the world premiere of ‘Domino Effect’ this spring. This compelling new play was written by award-winning playwright Marco Antonio Rogriguez and devised by immigrant artists.

Gonzalez-Leiba, Jr. joins ‘Domino Effect’ as a producing partner for audience development.

Performances will occur at A.R.T./New York Theaters in Manhattan from April 4 through April 20, 2025.

On Tuesday, the People’s Theatre said that ‘Domino Effect’ offers “a poignant exploration of identity, resilience, and connection.”

“On a warm summer night in Washington Heights, four generations of New Yorkers find themselves at a domino table, each with something to prove,” The People’s Theatre said. “In a world pulling them apart, will the game be their bridge – or their breaking point?

“The game itself becomes the unexpected bridge between generations, delving into themes of family, authenticity, and the intrinsic need to forge new connections across diverse, queer generations of immigrants,” it added.

“This world premiere production of ‘Domino Effect’ speaks to what we recognize our city and country needs today more than ever and leaves you feeling hopeful,” said Mino Lora, executive artistic director of The People’s Theatre and the play’s director.

“We hope audiences of all ages will see themselves reflected in the characters and recognize the importance of community, intergenerational connection, and the immense power that lies in listening and understanding, especially to those who see the world differently than you,” he added.

“This play captures so many facets of our shared humanity,” said Janio Marrero, Latinx Playwrights Circle executive director. “From queerness and grief to gender identity and Latinidad, ‘Domino Effect’ weaves a rich tapestry of themes that resonate deeply across audiences. It’s a love letter to the immigrant experience and the vibrancy of Washington Heights.”

“This story highlights the beauty of connection,” said María-Cristina Fusté, executive artistic director of Boundless Theatre Company. “In a world often divided by labels, ‘Domino Effect’ reminds us that love, friendship, and understanding are universal desires. We are thrilled to bring this powerful story to the stage.”

“At this moment, it’s more important than ever to share stories rooted in our communities,“ said Jiawen Hu, creative producer of PTP and the play’s lead producer. “‘Domino Effect’ speaks to the heart of our shared struggles and resilience, offering a powerful manifesto of the strength we find in community. This play is not just a story — it’s a call for connection, understanding, and the power of healing together.”

The People’s Theatre said the play unfolds in Fort Tryon Park when four lives intersect unexpectedly.

 It said Mandi, a 60-something immigrant wrestling with regret and identity, finds himself drawn into a dominoes game with Pepper Malveaux, a 40-something Black American trans woman, and voodoo pageantry queen; Atash Hesam, a millennial Iranian refugee seeking safety and belonging; and Gisel Fortuna, a Gen Z Dominican Republic overachiever navigating familial expectations.

The People’s Theatre said that together, they discover the strength of intergenerational bonds and the shared humanity that transcends their differences and brings them the freedom they so desperately seek.

Commissioned and developed by The People’s Theatre with a devising ensemble of immigrant artists, Domino Effect is written by Marco Antonio Rodriguez (In the Name of Salomé, Barceló on the Rocks, Oscar Wao), directed by Mino Lora (Missing Socks and a Line Of Coke by Rachel Lynett, The Goodbye/Rock On, by Andrew Rincon), and stage managed by Paulina Tobar Ramirez.

It is brought to life by much of the same cast engaged in the devising process two years ago: Shadi Ghaheri, Tony Macy-Perez, Willie the Genius, and Angela Reynoso.

‘Domino Effect’ is about 85 minutes with no intermission.

Throughout the show’s run, the People’s Theatre said presenters will host a series of talkbacks with the cast and creative team and panels focused on immigration, LGBTQ+ issues, and other topics related to the show’s themes.

You can learn more about the programs at www.thepeoplestheatre.org.

‘Domino Effect’ begins previews on April 4, with an opening night on April 9, and runs through April 20, 2025.