Echo Theater’s Deliciously Off-Kilter and Adventurous Comedy ‘F**king Strangers’
Modern intimacy in a digital age with mature sexual themes
Prepare for a collision of digital obsession and raw human intimacy as the award-winning Echo Theater Company presents the world premiere of F**king Strangers, opening July 18 in Atwater Village. Commissioned from the “fearless” and “razor-sharp” playwright Erik Patterson, this “deliciously off-kilter” dark comedy reunites the critically acclaimed cast of Clarkston alongside Big Little Lies star James Tupper. Set in a world where companionship can be bought and long-buried secrets are hidden behind bedroom doors, the play explores the “twisted” and “unexpectedly moving” ways we try to save one another—proving that in the search for connection, the truth is often stranger, and much funnier, than fiction
A powerhouse cast:
One of the most exciting aspects of this production is the high-caliber ensemble. F**king Strangers reunites the cast of the Echo’s hit production of Clarkston, which was heralded as “Best of Theater 2024” by the Los Angeles Times. Stars Michael Sturgis, Sean Luc Rogers, and Tasha Ames return to the stage together, bringing the chemistry that made their previous collaboration a critical darling.
Adding to the production’s star power is longtime Echo company member James Tupper. Best known for his roles in prestige television hits like HBO’s Big Little Lies, NBC’s Men in Trees, and ABC’s Revenge, Tupper takes on the role of Mick, a man who “can’t stop paying for affection”.
The distinctive voice of Erik Patterson
Playwright Erik Patterson brings a unique, multifaceted background to this premiere. Artistic director Chris Fields, who also directs this production, describes Patterson’s voice as one of the most distinctive in American theater. “His writing is fearless, razor-sharp, and deeply compassionate,” says Fields. “F**king Strangers constantly surprises you—every time you think you know what kind of play you’re watching, it transforms into something richer, stranger, and more moving”.
Twisted, hilarious and unexpectedly moving
The play explores the “twisted, hilarious, and unexpectedly moving” intersections of digital obsession and genuine human connection. The story follows four characters searching for intimacy in unconventional ways: Ru (Michael Sturgis): A man who hasn’t left his bedroom in six years. Dylan (Sean Luc Rogers): A man who sells companionship to anyone who can afford it.
Mick (James Tupper): A client seeking affection through payment and Julianne (Tasha Ames): A woman mourning the life she never pursued. As their online and real-life obsessions blur, long-buried truths surface in a “wildly unpredictable collision of sex, secrecy, family, and redemption”.
Award winning creative team
The creative team features the talents of scenic designer Amanda Knehans, lighting designer Matt Richter, sound designer M. Glenn Shuster, costume designer Dianne K Graebner and fight choreographer Tristan Waldron. Jasmine Leung serves as production stage manager.
How to see the show
The Echo Theater Company, recently honored with the prestigious Margaret Harford Award for “Excellence In Theatre,” is known as “the most vital center for offbeat drama in Los Angeles”. They continue their mission of making adventurous work accessible with several ticket options.
- When: July 18 through August 24.
- Previews: Pay-What-You-Want preview performances on July 15, 16, and 17.
- Monday Nights: All Monday night performances are Pay-What-You-Want.
- Location: Atwater Village Theatre, 3269 Casitas Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90039.
- Tickets: Ranging from $15 to $42.75, available at EchoTheaterCompany.com.
Note: Due to mature sexual themes, F**king Strangers is recommended for audiences ages 18 and up.
