‘The Monsters: A Sibling Love Story’ steps into the cage at Two River Theater in Red Bank, N.J.

RED BANK, NJ  — Two River Theater (TRT) will premiere The Monsters: A Sibling Love Story November 1–23, launching a bold new chapter in American drama. Written and directed by Ngozi Anyanwu, the play marks a co-production with Manhattan Theatre Club and unfolds in TRT’s Marion Huber Theater.

About The Monsters: A Sibling Love Story

Broadway veterans Aigner Mizzelle (Chicken & Biscuits) and Okieriete Onaodowan (Hamilton) star as LIL and BIG, two estranged siblings and mixed martial arts fighters. LIL, long obsessed with combat—and her brother’s legacy—finally steps into his world. She arrives unannounced, ready to confront the past and fight for connection.

TRT Artistic Director Justin Waldman calls the show “a dazzlingly original mash-up of forms.” He adds, “Anyanwu has created a new paradigm, where the emotional and physical each pack a visceral punch”.

Originally commissioned by TRT, The Monsters blends family drama with the intensity of the MMA cage. Developed in rehearsal halls and gyms, the play explores reunion, resentment, and redemption. With only two actors on stage, the production promises intimacy and impact.

About the actors

Mizzelle, a Lucille Lortel Award winner, originated the role of Latrice in Douglas Lyons’ Chicken & Biscuits. Onaodowan, a Grammy AwardⓇ winner, gained acclaim for his dual roles in Hamilton and continues to shine across stage and screen.

The Monsters: A Sibling Love Story Creative Team

• Ngozi Anyanwu (Author/Director)
• Rickey Tripp (Choreographer)
• Andrew Boyce (Scenic Designer)
• Mika Eubanks (Costume Designer)
• Cha See (Lighting Designer
• Mikaal Sulaiman (Sound Designer/Composer)

• Sijara “Sarj” Eubanks (MMA Consultant)
• Gerardo “Gerry” Rodriguez (Fight Director)
• AK Howard (Stage Manager)
• Alexus Jade Coney (Assistant Stage Manager)
• Casting: The Telsey Office, Caparelliotis Casting & Kelly Gillespie

Ticket information

Tickets range from $50–$70. Groups receive 20% off by emailing [email protected]. Student matinees are nearly sold out—reserve seats at [email protected].

For tickets and details, visit Two River Theater’s website. To explore the full 2025–2026 season, go to tworivertheater.org.