Article by Jake Mendel

The stakes for humanity have never been higher in the new Equity-approved showcase, “60/40,” featuring the talented S. Quincy Beard. This gripping production plunges audiences into a desperate seven-day race to save humankind, forcing an impossible choice: relocate 40% of Earth’s inhabitants to another planet, or face extinction. Beard is part of an interconnected ensemble of seven characters, bringing this urgent narrative to life at the Hudson Guild from June 9th to June 14th.

“60/40” is set decades after a catastrophic asteroid event decimated Earth’s population, rendering the planet nearly uninhabitable. This cataclysm led to two profound shifts: the colonization of “Earth II” and an alarming consolidation of wealth and power. In this stark future, a single entity, “ONE MEDIA,” controls all news and entertainment. The recently elected president is none other than the heir to this omnipresent media empire, blurring the lines between public and private sectors to dangerous degrees.

The play is a sharp exploration of “the dangers of tyranny and political corruption of the media,” alongside the “tremendous importance of critical thinking and personal connection in the face of oppression and misinformation.” Through its seven scenes, “60/40” aims to resonate with contemporary anxieties about power, control, and the dissemination of information in an increasingly complex world.

S. Quincy Beard is a featured artist in this compelling production, appearing courtesy of Actor’s Equity Association. While specific details about Beard’s role in “60/40” are not explicitly provided, their inclusion as an Equity actor suggests a significant contribution to the ensemble cast. The play’s structure, focusing on seven interconnected characters, promises a rich tapestry of human responses to an unimaginable global crisis.

Beard’s acting credits extend across film and television. They are known for their work in films such as “The Delicate Art of the Rifle” (1996), “Heads and Tails” (2009), and “Tweet Me in NY” (2014). S. Quincy Beard has also been credited as a director for “Welcome to My Life: The Series” (2012). This diverse background suggests an artist capable of bringing depth and nuance to the challenging themes presented in “60/40.”

The production runs for a limited engagement at the Hudson Guild, located at 441 W 26th Street, New York City. Performances are scheduled for Monday, June 9th at 6:30 PM; Wednesday, June 11th at 9:00 PM; and Saturday, June 14th at 6:45 PM.

“60/40” offers a timely and thought-provoking examination of humanity’s choices in the face of existential threats and unchecked power. With S. Quincy Beard as part of its talented cast, this showcase promises to be a powerful and unforgettable theatrical experience. Tickets are available [LINK TO TICKETS].