The Six paths
Written and Directed by My Le
Theater for a New City at 155 First Avenue (between 9th and 10th Streets), New York, NY 10003
February 19 - 23
The concept of reincarnation is deeply embedded in my spirit—so much so that just yesterday, I found myself contemplating karma and dharma. The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth reminds us that life is an illusion; we are spiritual beings having a human experience. Our existence is finite, a test of how we show up as our best selves for the greater good.
My Lê’s The Six Paths explores themes of reincarnation, karma, and fate within the framework of Vietnamese Buddhism—a fusion of Mahayana Buddhism, Zen, Pure Land, and folk traditions. Inspired by the short story Cõi Luân Hồi by Than Long and translated by Trang Ha, the play follows a young demon called to the human realm, only to discover that fate is inescapable and that every action carries consequences, even when life seems to flow effortlessly.
Currently in its workshop phase, the production integrates multiple theatrical forms, including movement, puppetry, dance, and oral storytelling. Staged in Theater for a New City’s black box space, the dark walls and minimalist set, enhanced by subtle lighting, create an eerie underworld where demons reside. Meanwhile, humans enter the afterlife bewildered—aloof, egotistical, confused, and fearful—yet offered a chance for repentance and cleansing.
The workshop features a strong and talented ensemble cast (Harsh, Belle Le, TuQuyen Pham, Amy Hart Nguyễn, Siwapol Andy McMurray, Mia Rouba M.Kiss, Đavid Lee Huỳnh, and VyVy Nguyễn). Harsh, in the role of our hero demon, is particularly engaging, making us root for him despite guessing his fate. However, the combination of transitions between scenes and numerous set stages, couple with a scene change lighting effect was somewhat distracting and took me out of the action of the play. But as this is a workshop, this is the perfect environment to find and adjust those moments. The show is two acts over 120 minutes with no intermission.
Click HERE for tickets.
Reviewed by Malini Singh McDonald.
Published by Theatre Beyond Broadway on Feb 20th, 2025. All rights reserved.