The Empty Space’s mission is to provide professional quality live theatre to the community of Bakersfield and to create an opportunity for local actors, directors and technicians to work in a creative environment that allows them to express themselves and their artistic ideas while encouraging them to continue to study and improve their craft.
Description
TOPDOG/UNDERDOG
Written by Suzan-Lori Parks
Directed by Michael Hendrix
June 19 & 20 @ 7:30pm
June 21 @ 2pm
Brothers Lincoln and Booth, named in jest, are two Black men living in America just trying to get by. Lincoln dresses like his namesake, reenacting his assassination for money and laughs. Booth stays stuck in their apartment, working tirelessly on his three-card hustle. Sibling rivalry and a lifetime of resentment come to a head in this fast-paced and ferocious thrill ride from Suzan-Lori Parks. The deck is stacked with a Pulitzer Prize-winning script, inspired debut from director Michael Hendrix, and a tour-de-force showdown for ensemble members Ty Halton and Nasiyr Johnson.
Date & Time
Jun 19 - 21, 2026