Anya Kai, reporting

From its playful premise to its powerful execution, the theatrical production of Girl Boy Girl Boy Girl is a testament to the collaborative spirit of its creative team. Written by Bear Kosik and directed by Erika Lupo, this unique show invites audiences into a mash-up of Duck-Duck-Goose and Musical Chairs, where five adults compete for a chance at “bliss” while exploring the complexities of intimacy.

The Playwright and Director

A true multi-hyphenate, playwright Bear Kosik embarked on his writing career in 2014 and has since produced ten plays, four novels, and two musicals. His diverse work has been featured in over 40 literary reviews, cementing his place as a prolific and versatile artist.

Director Erika Lupo brings over 25 years of experience in theater and film to the production. The founder of the children’s theater company, Acting-A-Part®, and Enchanted Cottage Productions, Lupo is a recognized leader in her field. She was named the 2019 Womanpreneur of the Year and hosts her own podcast, Women in the Loop, championing female voices in the industry.

The Cast

The play’s five-person cast includes a mix of veteran and rising talents. Zoé Zifer (Adele) recently made her Off-Broadway debut and is a Production Apprentice at The Apollo. Her work, which spans acting, directing, and producing, is focused on intersectional themes inspired by her culture. A recent highlight was directing Archive of My Own, which won Best Director and Best Production at the NYTF ’25 awards.

Sammy Rivas (Bill) is a multifaceted artist and co-founder of The Fool Volk theater collective. An actor, writer, director, and even puppet-maker, Rivas brings a wealth of experience from his work with companies like the Czechoslovak-American Marionette Theatre and the International WOW Co.

Newcomer Jessica Wang (Charmaine), a proud New Yorker from Taiwan, makes her exciting New York theater debut in this show. She is currently training at the William Esper Studio, and this production marks a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.

Rounding out the cast are Dan Bellusci (Mike) and Emma Waterhouse (Nikki). An accomplished musician and actor, Bellusci is delighted to be back at Under St. Marks, where he previously performed as a singer-songwriter. Waterhouse is also making her NYC debut with this show, having recently graduated with a BFA from Syracuse University.

With music by Jodie Fox and graphic art by Steve Gileski, the production brings together a dynamic team of individuals committed to creating a thought-provoking and engaging theatrical experience.

Girl Boy Girl Boy Girl plays on September 26 and 27 at Under St. Marks in New York City.