Devin Scillian makes his playwrighting debut with ‘Bastard’ at The Purple Rose Theatre Company | One Detroit

October 10, 2026

Devin Scillian, a former WDIV television journalist known for his work in music and children's literature, has written his debut stage play titled "Bastard," which premiered at The Purple Rose Theatre to open their new season. The dramatic comedy explores the fractured relationship between two contrasting brothers—a washed-up country music star and a conservative finance professional—who reunite following their mother's death and must confront longstanding family tensions. Scillian discussed his theatrical debut with One Detroit's Chris Jordan, emphasizing how his diverse career pursuits ultimately connect through narrative craft.

Who is affected

Devin Scillian (playwright and former journalist)
The Purple Rose Theatre
Director Rhiannon Ragland
Actor Mark Colson
Chris Jordan (One Detroit interviewer)
Detroiters and theatergoers attending the production

What action is being taken

The Purple Rose Theatre has opened its new season with the play
The play is being performed/running at The Purple Rose Theatre
The theatre is fostering and developing the original play collaboratively

Why it matters

This represents a significant creative expansion for a well-known Detroit media figure, demonstrating how storytelling skills transfer across different mediums. The play explores universal themes of family dysfunction, personal identity, and reconciliation that resonate with audiences. It also showcases The Purple Rose Theatre's commitment to developing new American plays through collaborative processes, contributing to the regional theater landscape.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com