The Birds

12th Ave Arts
1620 12th Ave. Seattle

Daphne du Maurier's short story The Birds not only inspired Alfred Hitchcock's classic film, it provided the basis for playwright Conor McPherson's innovative stage play, also called The Birds, which comes to Seattle's 12th Ave Arts. Unlike the film, the action here is limited to an abandoned house occupied by two strangers who've taken refuge from the relentless avian attacks outside. Though safe from the onslaught, the pair must overcome a lack of electricity and food, and the dangers continue to mount as things get more desperate. They're soon joined by other fleeing citizens who bring with them grim news about the rest of humanity, in addition to an increased sense of paranoia and anxiety. Soon, the group's discussions turn from simple survival to defining the rules of a new society, resulting in a tense experience that will have you scanning the skies.