You’d be crazy to miss this

David Hare’s critically acclaimed play “Straight Line Crazy,” starring Ralph Fiennes, will fill the big screen at the Newport Performing Arts Center this Friday, March 17.

A searing social critique filled with punchy dialogue and exceptional acting, the play recounts the history of one of the most influential figures in city architecture and urban planning — Robert Moses — and the impact of his policies on the New York City population. An important and fascinating story that few are aware of, the play received a five-star review from The Guardian, while Daily Mail heralded it as "David Hare's greatest writing."

Along with Fiennes, known for such films as “Harry Potter” and “The English Patient,” the exhilarating new play also features celebrated actors Helen Schlesinger, Samuel Barnett, Siobhan Cullen, Alana Maria and Danny Webb. Directed by Nicholas Hytner and recorded at the Bridge Theatre in London, “Straight Line Crazy” will appear on the big screen in the Alice Silverman Theatre for one night only.

National Theatre Live brings the best of British theater to cinema screens around the world. Each broadcast is filmed in front of a live audience using state-of-the-art filming techniques.

Friday’s screening begins at 7 pm at the Newport Performing Arts Center, located at 777 W Olive Street. Ticket prices range from $15 to $20. For more information, go to coastarts.org or call 541-265-2787.