In 2017, Seattle Rep developed Mother Russia by Lauren Yee at the Colorado New Play Festival (then the Perry-Mansfield New Works Festival). After a world premiere at Seattle Rep in 2025, Mother Russia has been named a New York Times Critic’s Pick for its Signature Theatre run (now playing through March 22) in New York, and was just announced as part of South Coast Repertory's 2026/27 Season! Hear from playwright Lauren Yee about the origins of the play:

Check out what Seattle audience and critics are saying about Mother Russia's Seattle Rep production (March 6–April 13, 2025)—plus National press from its New York debut! 

Audience & Critic Reviews

Audience Reviews:

"Mother Russia is an incredibly important nuanced conversation to have. This was the right time to do this production. I loved it." - Audience Member

"Lauren Yee never fails to challenge and amuse." - Audience Member

"This was a very funny show with excellent production values & strong performances!" - Audience Member

Seattle Area Press: 

The Daily: "Balancing outrageous comedy with emotional conflict, “Mother Russia” impressively maneuvers the audience through a pivotal moment in history."

The Sound On Stage: "The choice of this play and the level of quality of the production solidifies my confidence in the future of the Rep as Seattle’s home for new and innovative theatre."
"[Mother Russia] is strong and deep, and the humor is off the charts." 

BroadwayWorld: "Yee does it again. Brings the humor from the tragic, without ever lessening the tragedy."

SGN: "What does 'Mother Russia' tell us about ourselves?: An interview with Lauren Yee"

Seattle Times: "Plenty of fun, familiar and entertainment in theater for 2025"

National Press:

The New York Times: "Mother Russia Review: A New Play That’s as Funny as It’s Smart"

Vulture: “In Mother Russia, the Communist Party Is Definitely Over”

Playbill: "Reviews Are Out for Lauren Yee's Mother Russia"

American Theatre: "Holding up the mirror to Russia"

Mother Russia made its World Premiere at Seattle Rep March 6–April 13, 2025

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