Rockridge-based horror writer, playwright, and performer Schaeffer Nelson premieres his latest solo play, The Specimen, as part of SF Playground’s SoloFest, running January 18–February 2 at Potrero Stage, 1695 18th St, San Francisco.
The Specimen follows Johnny, a gay paleo zoologist who loses his job amid Trump-era science budget cuts. Outraged and unmoored, Johnny refuses to abandon his life’s work, continuing his research through increasingly dangerous—and darkly comedic—methods inside his apartment bathroom. As his obsession escalates, the line between scientific ambition and self-destruction begins to blur.
Blending horror, satire, and political rage, The Specimen explores queer identity, institutional abandonment, and the costs of pursuing truth in a world that no longer funds it. The production is written and performed by Schaeffer Nelson, directed by Bella Campos Hintzman, and stage managed by Jasmine Lew. Content Warning: This production includes bloody imagery and nudity.
Performances are at Potrero Stage (1695 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94107) on the following days and times:
• Sunday, January 18 at 2:30pm
• Saturday, January 24 at 4pm
• Thursday, January 29 at 8:30pm
• Monday, February 2 at 7pm
The Specimen is presented as part of SF Playground’s SoloFest, a festival celebrating innovative solo performance from Bay Area artists. For press inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact Schaeffer Nelson schaeffernelsonwriting@gmail.com.
