Kevin Kling returns to Merrimack Repertory Theatre in Lowell with “Kevin Kling: Unraveled,” a deeply personal storytelling piece running Jan. 21 through Feb. 8.
This production is presented in partnership with the Contemporary American Theater Festival (CATF). “Unraveled” is a courageous and comedic exploration of life’s unexpected twists and turns, directed by Steven Dietz and accompanied by musician Robertson Witmer who is also the sound designer.
Kevin Kling is widely recognized as one of America’s most compelling storytellers. A regular contributor to NPR’s “All Things Considered”, he blends humor, vulnerability, and profound insight in his plays and solo performances, exploring themes of family, disability, loss, resilience, and the small, transformative moments of everyday life.
Born with a congenital disability and having survived a serious motorcycle accident, Kling brings a unique perspective to his work. His performances are honest, poignant, and deeply human. A longtime collaborator with MRT and one of its commissioned playwrights, Kling previously delighted audiences with “Best Summer Ever,” a nostalgic and humorous reflection on his childhood.
In “Unraveled,” Kling invites audiences into a journey through his own life: from childhood adventures and family experiences to navigating life with a congenital disability and recovering from a life-changing motorcycle accident.
Accompanied onstage by Rob Witmer, the performance weaves humor, heartbreak, and hope, reflecting on how connections shape our lives. “Unraveled” shows how Kling is constantly looking for the patterns, connections and the surprising intersections that connect us to each other and to the world. With a heartfelt ode to love and apologies to the gods, Kling unravels the tangled threads that have guided him to an unexpected destination.
Stages asked Kling recently what makes a good story and he replied: “As a storyteller I know I’ve nailed it when a kid comes up to me after the show and says, “ You’re almost as good as my grandpa.” Nobokov said a good story should entertain, educate, and enchant. I agree . When you come to “Unraveled” you can expect to have a good time, learn a little something, and to be taken to a world of imagination. It may come as an unexpected laugh, a “sit on the edge of your seat” adventure, or a reminder that we are in this world together and there is far more that connects than separates us.”
“Kevin is a joy and a delight to be around, and his stories will leave your spirits lifted on these cold winter days, “ said MRT marketing director Carolyn Andrews.
Contact www.mrt.org for tickets and info.
In the wings
OGUNQUIT SEASON: Can May be far off when the Ogunquit Playhouse announces its upcoming season? That happened this week and Stages is excited! The 2026 season will begin with “Ain’t Too Proud” (May 14 – June 13), followed by “Hello, Dolly!” (June 18 – July 18), “City of Angels” (July 23 – Aug. 22), “The Producers” (Aug. 27 – Sept. 26), and a World Premiere musical to be announced shortly (Oct. 1 – Nov. 1). 3, 4, and 5-Show Season Passes can be purchased by calling the Box Office (207.646.5511) weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or online at tickets.ogunquitplayhouse.org. Individual show tickets go on sale to the public Tuesday, March 17, with an exclusive pre-sale week for Playhouse Members and Passholders, March 10-16. For more information on Membership, visit ogunquitplayhouse.org/membership
Nancye Tuttle’s email is [email protected].
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