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6mo ago

Berkeley Rep's 'the aves' Premieres with Stunning Design and Reflective Sci-Fi Themes

Jiehae Park's one-act play explores aging, memory, and regret through a near-future reverse-aging premise, receiving acclaim for its atmosphere and performances.

Laakan McHardy as Young Woman, left, and Daniel Croix as Young Man in “The Aves.”
Laakan McHardy as Young Woman, left, and Daniel Croix as Young Man in “The Aves.”
Bill Buell as Old Man, left, and Mia Katigbak as Old Woman in “The Aves.”
Bill Buell as Old Man, left, and Daniel Croix as Young Man in Berkeley Repertory Theatre’s “The Aves.”

Overview

  • Berkeley Repertory Theatre's world premiere of Jiehae Park's 'the aves' debuted on May 7, 2025, and runs through June 8 at Peet's Theatre in Berkeley, California.
  • The 80-minute one-act play, directed by Knud Adams, combines a minimalist, lyrical approach with a sci-fi premise centered on a reverse-aging procedure.
  • Critics praise the production's immersive design, featuring a moss-covered pond, weather effects, and evocative lighting by Marsha Ginsberg and Masha Tsimring.
  • Mia Katigbak's dual-role performance is highlighted as a standout, capturing the play's emotional depth and philosophical ambitions.
  • While the play's dialogue and themes of memory and regret intrigue, some reviews note a lack of narrative and emotional development.