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Charleston, SC (For Immediate Release) – PURE Theatre is proud to announce the World Premiere of a new play inspired by the lives of two now-forgotten Lowcountry artists. Written by local playwright Brad Erickson, The Ocean We Swim In uncovers haunting secrets of the past and offers a path to reconciliation. Directed by Sharon Graci, performances will run from April 16 to May 9 at the Cannon Street Arts Center.
In the quiet of the South Carolina Lowcountry, a recently canceled art critic seeks refuge with his husband. But exile to the South Carolina marshes unexpectedly offers one last chance at redemption – if the critic is willing to take down a nearly 100-year-old local art legend to do it.
“I’m thrilled that The Ocean We Swim In is receiving its world premiere at PURE Theatre here in Charleston”, says playwright Brad Erickson. “The play is not only set in the Lowcountry, it is steeped in Lowcountry history and characters. PURE Theatre, with its long commitment to new work and expertise in bringing new plays to life, is the perfect company for this very personal play’s first production.”
The production features Michael Smallwood, Andrew Puckett, Joy Vandervort-Cobb, and R.W. Smith.
Tickets for The Ocean We Swim In range from $47 to $53. Pay-What-You-Will performances will take place on April 16 and April 22, with tickets available for online purchase one week before opening. Student tickets are available for $15 for every performance. The production is also available through the Season 23 Flex Pass, offered in 3- or 5-ticket options that include flexible scheduling and additional perks. Tickets and Flex Passes are available now at puretheatre.org.
Additional information about The Ocean We Swim In can be found on PURE’s website or by calling the box office at 843.723.4444 (Tuesday through Friday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm).
ABOUT PURE THEATRE
Founded in 2003, PURE Theatre is Charleston’s award-winning professional theatre company, now in its 23rd season. Built around a resident ensemble of actors, directors, and designers, PURE produces bold contemporary plays—often Southeastern and regional premieres—that bring the most current voices in American theatre to Charleston. Known for its quality, intimacy, and consistency, PURE offers audiences a boutique cultural experience that complements the city’s historic and culinary landscape. Grounded by a five-play mainstage season, PURE also produces educational and touring programs, strengthening Charleston’s arts ecology and contributing to its reputation as a world-class cultural destination.
PURE’s staff includes Sharon Graci (Co-founder and Artistic Director), Rodney Lee Rogers (Co-founder and Director of New Media and Production), David Mandel (Associate Artistic Director), Joy Vandervort-Cobb (Associate Artistic Director), Shivam Patel (Director of Education), Meagan McMahon (Patron Experience and Marketing Manager), and Tippy Trombly (Patron Experience and Marketing Associate).
Serving on PURE Theatre’s board of directors are Stephanie Hunt (President), Brad Erickson (Vice Chair), James M. Ward, CPA (Treasurer), Michael Culler, Amy Gaffney, David Smalls, Liza Elsner, Bea Wray, and Josh Wilhoit.
Photo Credit: David Mandel
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