Help Bring 'Bug' to Life at CalArts

Why Bug

BUG explores how when we are made to feel powerless against the injustice of the world, conspiracy theories provide us a dangerously comfortable realm in which our suffering is granted meaning. We hope that BUG allows members of our community to gain an understanding of the complexity of these experiences at a time when paranoia runs rampant in our culture. With the tumultuous conditions we find our world in, BUG provides valuable insight on the people who are left to fall through the cracks of the social order. As a director, I came to BUG thinking I was alone in my experiences with paranoia, addiction, and conspiracy theory; through this process we've discovered how in sharing our experiences, we don't feel as powerless as we did in isolation. We believe BUG can be a vehicle for similar conversations in our community.

About Bug

Bug is a psychological thriller by Tracy Letts that explores themes of paranoia, isolation, and mental instability. Set in a rundown Oklahoma motel room, the play centers on two main characters: Agnes, a vulnerable woman with a troubled past, and Peter, a mysterious drifter with an intense belief that he is being targeted by government conspiracies. As their relationship intensifies, Peter's delusions of being infested by bugs—especially microscopic, parasitic insects—begin to consume both of them. The play blurs the line between reality and madness, leaving the audience questioning what is truly happening and what is a product of the characters' unraveling minds. Bug combines elements of horror, psychological drama, and dark humor to create a tense, unnerving atmosphere.

Your Impact

Your generous donation helps alleviate the significant financial demands of producing live theater. The funds raised through this campaign will directly support essential aspects of our production, including securing performance rights for the show, crafting a stunning set designed by Alix Newman, acquiring the props that bring this compelling story to life, and outfitting the cast in costumes designed by Niyati Ramachandran. Additionally, your contribution will help cover the cost of special effects and makeup materials to enhance the audience experience. We are deeply grateful for every donation, no matter the amount, and for the incredible support we receive as we bring this project to the stage.

THE ARTISTS:

CREATIVE TEAM

Director: Kayden J. Merritt

AD and Lighting Designer: Cathleen Conte-Marrero

Stage Manager and Sound Designer: Jacob Padilla

Scenic Designer: Alix Newman

Technical Director: Tahvo Stephan

Costume Designer: Niyati Ramachandran

Video/Projections Designer: Jude Maitlen

SFX Make-up Artist: Tali Chase

Producer: Keely Cobb

Graphic Designer: Justin Gold

CAST

AGNES WHITE - Lily Payne

PETER EVANS - Brayden Lawrence

R.C. - Stella Cockrum

JERRY GOSS - Joe Curry

DR. SWEET - Arman Jaiswal

Join us in bringing 'Bug' to CalArts in all its glory!