BARREL MEN

By Tyler Dobies

Two siblings struggling to connect with their Filipinx immigrant heritage mysteriously receive a call that their lola has been kidnapped.

The problem: she's dead.

Now with a chance to bring her back, P and M discover that connecting to their culture might just be the key to saving her.

Friday, Sept 23 at 4pm

ART / New York
520 8th Avenue, 3rd Floor

Suggested Donation for wine & nosh

BARREL MEN is a mystery, it's absurdist, and then there's Jesus... what inspired you to write this play?

For this play - I’m first inspired by the many immigrant grandparents forging a better life for their children and grandchildren. I’m inspired by the indefatigable search for belonging. I’m inspired by making meaning of a family history even when it feels like your access to that history and culture is limited. I’m inspired by learning how to cook your culture’s favorite recipes. By subversion. By the intersection of absurdity and grounded humanity. By making a way when there isn’t one.

What exactly are Barrel Men?

An excellent question! Barrel Men are these souvenir statuettes from the Philippines that are usually carved from wood. It is a male figurine partially hidden underneath a barrel as if he is wearing the barrel. The barrel can then be removed which reveals the nude male figurine with spring-loaded arms and, to put it nicely, other parts. I just find them so ridiculous and a curious entry point for those discovering Filipino culture - or re-discovering as my characters are.

What's your favorite Asian restaurant in NYC?

I can't just pick one favorite Asian restaurant in NYC! I could talk food and restaurants all day, but I will list three. For delicious Korean food, Cho Dang Gol is my go-to in Midtown South. They are known for their homemade tofu - delicious. If I'm in the mood for Thai (and I always am), I will head over to East Harlem for dinner at Malii Thai Kitchen. I think I've tried most everything off this menu. And of course, for Filipino food, I love Bilao on the UES. It just hits the spot perfectly and reminds me of home. The restaurant also has a cool, unique origin story, but I'll let you discover that on your own when you go feast!