Ro Reddick’s ‘Cold War Choir Practice’ Extends Run, Garners Accolades
Ro Reddick’s critically acclaimed play, Cold War Choir Practice, is extending its run at MCC Theater in New York City, following a successful premiere at Clubbed Thumb’s Summerworks festival in 2025. The production has likewise received the 2026 Susan Smith Blackburn Prize and the 2025-2026 Paula Vogel Playwriting Award, solidifying Reddick’s position as a rising star in American theater.
Origins and Initial Success
Cold War Choir Practice initially premiered at Clubbed Thumb’s Summerworks festival in June 2025, where it was a sold-out critic’s pick. The New York Times praised the play as a “music-infused comedy” set during the Cold War era. The production was co-produced by Page 73 and featured direction by Knud Adams. It has since been remounted at MCC Theater in a co-production with Clubbed Thumb and Page 73.
Awards and Recognition
The play’s success has been further underscored by several prestigious awards. Ro Reddick was named the 2025-2026 recipient of the Paula Vogel Playwriting Award and is currently an artist-in-residence at the Vineyard Theatre. Cold War Choir Practice also received the 2026 Susan Smith Blackburn Prize.
About the Play
Cold War Choir Practice is described as an “off-kilter comedy” with music, written by Ro Reddick, a queer Black playwright, songwriter, and educator. Reddick’s work often explores themes of late-stage capitalism and societal anxieties. The play features a choir that serves as both characters within the story and guides for the audience, with music composed by Reddick herself. The narrative centers around a 10-year-old protagonist, Meek, and her family in 1987 Syracuse, New York, as they navigate personal struggles against the backdrop of Cold War tensions.
Additional Productions and Affiliations
Beyond its New York runs, Cold War Choir Practice was also produced at the Trinity Repertory Company in September 2025, directed by Aileen Wen McGroddy. Ro Reddick is also an Audrey Resident at New Georges and an alumna of the Page 73 Writers Group and the DGF Playwriting Fellowship.
Performance Details
The extended run at MCC Theater’s Newman Mills Theater continues through March 29, 2026. Tickets are available through Clubbed Thumb.