2026/27 Season

A Black-billed Cuckoo

World-Premiere Play

A Black-billed Cuckoo

Overview
Cast & Creators
Gallery
Venue Info

SEP – OCT 2026 | Mandell Weiss Forum

Written by Mat Smart

Directed by Shelley Butler

“The birding community is like a secret society — and once you join, all of a sudden it feels as though practically everyone you meet is a member.” Jonathan Soroff

The elusive black-billed cuckoo is notoriously difficult to find, even if you know what you’re looking for — and that’s precisely the bird Ruth has been looking for these past few years. Over 24 hours in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park, a close-knit birding group is turned upside down when some of its members glimpse this rare bird and others don’t.

Award-winning playwright Mat Smart — known for his “intricate, delightful comic drama” storytelling (The New York Times) — introduces us to a fascinating community of people who revel in the idea that any given day might bring something they’ve never seen before. Director Shelley Butler has worked extensively on new plays, creating “dynamic, charming, and laugh-filled” productions (BroadwayWorld).

The 13th play to make the leap from our DNA New Work Series to the stage, A Black-billed Cuckoo is a quiet comedy about healing, wonder and how to move on after missing out.

Ticket Information

Tickets are currently only available as part of a 2026/27 Season subscription.
We’d love you to join us! Subscribe to secure the lowest prices, best seats, free exchanges, free parking and more perks all year. Explore the 2026/27 Season and subscription options here.

Single tickets will go on sale in Spring 2026. Join our email list to be notified.

First Look (previews)*: Sep 15, 16, 17, 18, 20 mat & eve
Weeks 2 – 4: Sep 22 – Oct 11

* ‘First Look’ performances are the first week of the run (with some exceptions). First Look tickets are lower price and offer the opportunity to experience the show while the creative team are still polishing and making changes. This is a vital element of a show’s evolution, allowing the creative team to see the show through the eyes of the audience. Playhouse staff speak to the audience before the show starts, and the creative team may be seated near you taking notes. Please take this into account when purchasing tickets.

Content Guidance

This show contains some strong language, discussions of grief and is recommended for ages 12 and up. We understand sensitivities vary from person to person. Read about our age recommendations here. If you have any questions about content or stage effects, please get in touch with our Patron Services team at [email protected] or (858) 550-1010 and we’ll be happy to give you more info.

Duration

Approximately 1 hour and 30 mins with no intermission. This world-premiere show is currently in development. Duration will be updated closer to the run dates. Please check back here and in your pre-show emails.

Audience Engagement Events

Enhance your Playhouse experience by attending these free events. Simply book your performance for one of the following dates.

Talkback Tuesdays: Tue, Sep 29 and Oct 6 after the 7:30pm show

Participate in a lively discussion with performers and Playhouse staff members immediately following the performance.

Discovery Sunday: Sun, Oct 4 after the 1pm show

Hear from guest speakers in a moderated discussion exploring the themes of the show.

Access Performance

ACCESS Performance (ASL interpretation): Sat, Oct 3, 2pm

The Playhouse caters for a wide range of access and special requirements. Access performances offer American Sign Language interpretation for patrons who are d/Deaf or hard-of-hearing, captioning for patrons to access on individual devices, and a relaxed welcoming environment for patrons with sensory sensitivities. Audio Description for patrons who are blind or have low vision can be requested in advance. Please call (858) 550-1010 or email [email protected] and we will work with you to address your access needs. Find more info about access here.

Sensory Friendly Guide

Read the Sensory Friendly Guide for the Weiss Forum here

Useful Information

Parking

UC San Diego’s Theatre District Parking Structure is across the road from the Playhouse. Ticket buyers can pay for parking on-site at the ParkMobile website parkmobile.io. Subscribers get free parking. Find all parking information here.

Concessions

Concessions open 60 mins before showtime. Come early to relax outside and enjoy a selection of beer, wine, cocktails, sodas and individually wrapped snacks. All food must be consumed before entering the theatre while concession drinks with lids will be allowed in the theatre.

Venue Info

Mandell Weiss Forum

The Mandell Weiss Forum is a 400-seat thrust stage theatre, with audience members surrounding the stage on three sides.