Birds eye view of a production

Exit, Pursued by a Bear

Week 4: April 24–27

By Lauren Gunderson
Directed by Zakk Ottmers

Inspired by Shakespeare's stage direction in The Winter's Tale, Lauren Gunderson’s Exit, pursued by a bear is about Nan, who has decided to teach her abusive husband Kyle a lesson. With the help of her friend Simon (acting as her emotional -- and actual -- cheerleader) and a stripper named Sweetheart, she forces Kyle to watch as they reenact scenes from their painful past. Through this night of emotional trials and ridiculous theatrics, Nan and Kyle are both freed from their past in this smart, dark revenge comedy.

Produced by special arrangement with Playscripts, Inc.

Cast

  • Donovan Fowler
  • Jessie Kinstler
  • Natalie Estelle Marsan
  • Nicole Stewart

Actors

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    Student from the Pace University Sands College of Performing Arts Donovan Fowler

    Donovan Fowler is a New York City based actor. Born and raised in the Washington D.C. area, he began acting for the stage and screen at age three. In 2003, Donovan became a member of the Screen Actors Guild/the American Federation of Television and Radio (SAG-AFTRA). Some of his screen credits include The Wonder Pets, An Invisible Sign, and several national commercials. He has trained at Morgan State University, American Conservatory Theatre, and the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University. Some of his favorite roles include Lumière (Beauty & the Beast), Serge (Art), and Emory (MilkMilkLemonade). He is so grateful that his family for their continued love, support, and encouragement. Follow Donovan on Instagram.

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    Student from the Pace University Sands College of Performing Arts Jesse Kinstler.

    Jesse Kinstler is a New York City based actor/singer/dancer hailing from Ellicott City, Maryland. Performing since age nine, he graduated from Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pennsylvania with a BA in Theatre (acting concentration) and a minor in Dance and learned the importance of self care and routinely doing laundry. He made the decision to return to his education, choosing to pursue his MFA in Acting from the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University. Most recently, he earned the award for “Best Actor” for his performance in the new play Reflection of a Shadow from the New York Theatre Festival. Other credits include What we Choose to Breathe (The Tank), OH-EM-Gee (film), Preparatory (film), and regionally Bring It On: The Musical, Beauty and the Beast,and My Fair Lady among many others. He offers a huge thanks to his mom, dad, and Ethan. Find out more on Jesse's website or follow Jesse on Instagram.

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    Student from the Pace University Sands College of Performing Arts Natalie Marsan

    Natalie Estelle Marsan is an actor, singer, and writer based in Brooklyn, NY. Originally from the Midwest, Natalie received a BA in Psychology and Theater from Boston College and has been studying voice at Tamagini Voice Studio in conjunction with her master’s degree at ASDS. Recent off-Broadway theater credits include The Senator and His Wife Go On Retreat at Blank Page Theater Company and Reflection of a Shadow at the New York Theater Festival. Follow Natalie on TikTok.

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    Student from the Pace University Sands College of Performing Arts Nicole Stewart

    Nicole Stewart is a Mexican-American New York City based actor. Before pursuing her MFA at The Actors Studio Drama School, she earned a degree in Marketing at ITESM in Mexico City. Her favorite roles include Jo March (Little Women), Alma Winemiller (Summer and Smoke), and Corie Bratter (Barefoot in the Park). She is extremely thankful to her family for their unconditional support, los amo. Follow Nicole on Instagram.

Director

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    Student from the Pace University Sands College of Performing Arts Zach Ottmers

    Zakk Ottmers (he/him) is a director who has been entranced by the world of film and theatre since he was a small child. His passion for both has led him to New York to create pieces that invoke an audience to keep thinking far after they have left the theatre. Zakk has now produced several new works with his company Blank Page Theatre Co. including Sisters, Riding Lessons, The Senator and His Wife Go on Retreat, and Say Gay. He has also worked on several off-off Broadway works including A Rehearsal for a Live-Action Adaptation of an Episode of “Tom and Jerry” and Queen in the Key of D. He wants to thank his wonderful cast for their work, as well as his friends and family for their support.

Stage Managers

  • Production Stage Manager (Weeks B, D, F): Allison Raynes*
  • Assistant Stage Manager (Weeks B, D, F): Matthew Palmer*

*Denotes member of Actors Equity Association