Founded in 2002 by Hungarian-born director Ildikó Nemeth, The New Stage Theatre Company is an award-winning, Manhattan-based ensemble known for its bold visual style and cross-cultural approach to performance. Drawing on Eastern European theatrical traditions, New Stage has presented over 24 original and adapted works in New York, distinguished by their physical and absurdist humor paired with socially and psychologically complex material.
As a recipient of the 2025 Tulipán Cultural Connection Award, New Stage will debut the U.S. premiere of The Bat by acclaimed Hungarian playwright Krisztina Tóth with support from the Tulipán Foundation. Set in a kindergarten, the darkly comedic play begins with the disappearance of a rubber toy bat and unfolds into a sharp critique of paranoia, resentment, and everyday power dynamics in contemporary society.
Tóth, widely known as one of Hungary’s most influential literary voices, brings a sharp wit and fearless sociopolitical insight to her work, making her a vital voice in modern theater. The New York production will include 12 public performances and post-show talkbacks, creating space for dialogue around the play’s themes while introducing American audiences to one of Hungary’s most compelling contemporary writers.
