Babes With Blades Theatre Company
Chicago, IL
Photo: Joe Mazza
Comedy-Drama; Sci-fi/ 6 characters (3 women, 1 man, 2 any gender) + 3 ensemble (any gender)/ Full Length
Synopsis: The S Paradox is set in a future where the United States has undergone sweeping reform: guns are banned, healthcare is free, and numerous economic bills have shrunk the class divide. Sloane (first name Bridget, but don’t call her that) is a young woman who has been tapped to join the CRC, a watchdog intelligence agency led by the odd, yet charming William Hale.
As Sloane triumphantly (and a little drunkenly) leaves a warehouse after signing her contract, she is stopped by a mysterious woman who says she has come back in time to stop Sloane from making the biggest mistake of her life. This time travelling sci-fi adventure celebrates one person’s attempt to make positive change, despite the mistakes of her past . . . and her future.
From the Chicago Reader: “What is better than a time travel play? Not much. A rare species in itself, it can only be improved upon by something equally awesome — like centering women, impeccable stage combat, and a rock-solid plot.”
“An innovative combination of science fiction and dystopian drama . . . . compelling.” – Around the Town Chicago
“Delivers thrill after thrill.” – Chicago Reader
Amateur and professional rights:
Jillian Leff
jeleff11@gmail.com
About the Playwright: Jillian Leff is a Chicago-based playwright, actor, and stage combat nerd. Her full-length plays MISSED OPPORTUNITIES, SMALL WORLD (co-written with Joe Lino), (NON)FICTION, THE S PARADOX, and THE MARK have had productions in Chicago and Los Angeles, with SMALL WORLD receiving a Jeff Award Nomination for New Work for its Chicago world premiere.
Additionally, THE S PARADOX is a winner of Babes With Blades Theatre Company’s Joining Sword and Pen Competition/ Margaret W. Martin Award, and THE MARK was a 2023-2024 Henley Rose Playwright Competition for Women Finalist.
Several of her short plays have also been produced in Chicago, including REAL TALK, which was a Finalist for the City Theatre National Award for Short Playwriting, is published in The City Theatre Anthology 2015, and has also been produced in Indiana and Florida. She has a BFA in Acting from Ball State University, is an Advanced Actor Combatant with The Society of American Fight Directors, and is an Ensemble Member and Literary Manager of BWBTC.
The S Paradox was first produced by Babes With Blades Theatre Company, Chicago IL, in April 2024.
“A fun time-travel adventure that provides commentary on society’s pressing issues.” – Newcity Stage
“Blew my socks off!” – Buzz Centre Stage