Lyric Arts has announced the cast and schedule for “White Rabbit Red Rabbit,” a boundary-pushing play by Iranian writer Nassim Soleimanpour, opening October 17, 2025, at the Main Street Stage in downtown Anoka.
Lyric Arts Theater Company is entering its 30th season as a professional theater in downtown Anoka. The company presents a mix of plays, musicals, concerts, and educational programming year-round. Its mission highlights inclusivity, accessibility, and serving the northern suburbs of Minneapolis with a range of cultural offerings.
Unlike traditional productions, “White Rabbit Red Rabbit” is performed without rehearsal, director, or prior knowledge of the script. Each night, a different actor steps onstage, opens a sealed envelope, and performs the script for the first time in front of the audience. The format has been described as both intimate and unpredictable, allowing the performer to experience the story alongside the audience in real time.
Since its debut in 2011, the play has been staged worldwide and earned the Dublin Fringe Festival Award for Best New Performance. Lyric Arts emphasizes that while the play engages with themes of obedience, power, and human connection, it is not designed as overtly political. The company requested that media coverage avoid framing the show as political, noting Soleimanpour continues to reside in Iran.
The cast and creative team
Lyric Arts has assembled a rotating ensemble of Twin Cities performers for the run. Scheduled actors include Tyler Michaels King, Noah Hynick, Lauren Anderson, Pedro Juan Fonesca, Kate Beahen, Emma Schuld, Armando Harlow Ronconi, Kiko Laureano, Shanan Custer, Joy Dolo, and Nora Sonneborn.
Behind the scenes, Shannon Elliott will design lighting, with Matthew Meeks as stage manager and Emerson Stenbeck as assistant stage manager.
Run dates and tickets
“White Rabbit Red Rabbit” will run from October 17 through November 2, 2025, at the Main Street Stage, located at 420 E. Main Street in Anoka. Ticket prices begin at $47, with group discounts available. Tickets can be purchased through the Lyric Arts website or by phone. Select performances will include post-show discussions and accessibility services, including ASL interpretation.
Known nationally as the “Halloween Capital of the World,” Anoka earned the title by hosting one of the first organized Halloween celebrations in 1920. The city launched the event to discourage pranks and mischief by offering a parade and community activities. More than a century later, Anoka still embraces its Halloween identity with parades, haunted houses, contests, and family-friendly events throughout October. There’s even a giant jack-o’-lantern sculpture downtown.
Members of the Daily Planet team will attend the second performance on October 18. Writer Abbie Wells and Editor-in-Chief Zack Benz will be there and will spend the day enjoying Anoka’s Halloween festivities.
