Devin Scillian Premiered Bastard in Chelsea
The new play, which features an original score, explores the relationship between two estranged brothers.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Performance Art
Live Poll
Do you plan to attend local live theater performances in your area this year?
Devin Scillian has debuted his latest play, Bastard, at the Purple Rose Theatre in Chelsea. The production stars Marc Colson and Joe Kathrein as brothers grappling with a long-held family secret.
Why it matters
The play examines the subjective nature of personal history and explores family dynamics through the lens of two very different brothers. It serves as a creative collaboration for the theater founded by actor Jeff Daniels.
The production is staged in a thrust theater configuration where the audience surrounds the performance on 3 sides. The play is currently scheduled for an extended run that concludes on December 20, 2026.
The players
Devin Scillian
He is the author of both the script and the music for the new play.
Jeff Daniels
He is the founder of the Purple Rose Theatre in Chelsea, Michigan.
Rhiannon Ragland
She serves as the director of the production at the theater.
Marc Colson
He performs as one of the lead brothers in the stage production.
Joe Kathrein
He portrays the other lead character in this dramatic narrative.
The details
Directed by Rhiannon Ragland, the play follows the contrasting lives of Jake Lambert, a country music performer, and Bo Lambert, a financial professional. Scillian penned both the script and the music for the production, which was inspired by a thematic concept provided by Cory Scillian.
Timeline
October 12, 2026: The play held its premiere.
December 20, 2026: The final performance of the play is scheduled.
Industry Dynamics
The premiere underscores the continued commitment of the Purple Rose Theatre to its mission to develop new plays. This production highlights the regional theater movement that prioritizes local storytelling over reliance on touring Broadway adaptations.
Theatergoers can view the play in a unique thrust setting that offers an intimate view of the stage from three sides. Tickets for the remaining performances are available through the theater's official box office portal.
The takeaway
The play provides a unique look at how personal history and brotherly bonds can be tested by secret-keeping. It is an example of how regional theaters remain vital hubs for original dramatic storytelling.
Further reading
For more information on the local arts scene, visit our Performance Art section.
More information
Purchase tickets or view the full schedule on the Purple Rose Theatre ticket information website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WDIV.
Live Poll
Do you plan to attend local live theater performances in your area this year?
