Event

Metro Theater Company presents NEW KID

The play tells the story of Nick and his family, immigrants to the U.S. When he arrives at school the first day, his hopes of making new friends is dashed. The kids in his school make fun of Nick's clothes, his lunch, and his confusion about almost everything. One boy bullies him relentlessly. Worst of all, Nick doesn't speak the language. Nick's mother urges him to keep at it, but she, too, is struggling with assimilation in this place that feels so far from home.

Dennis Foon's script provides a clever twist that gets the audience on Nick's side right off the bat: Nick and his family speak English, while the "American" kids speak an invented language. As Nick gradually learns the language, we do, too. More importantly, he earns the respect and friendship of someone who values his cultural differences.

Play length: 50 minutes

Audience Recommendation: Adults, families, young people age 5 and up