In a country as big as the United States, the concept of nationalism can sometimes seem enormous, so it might be easier to resort to statism. Of course, the realities of being a Vermonter or a Bay Stater or a New Yorker are always far more complex than a pithy one-liner about hippies or bad drivers might suggest. New York Stories: Short Plays about Life and Death in the Big City explores the tragedy and comedy inherent in being a New Yorker as characters from short plays by David Mamet, David Meltzer and Bronwyn Sims, among others, struggle for success, mourn losses, and argue about food.
Jan. 16-17, 8 p.m., Jan. 18, 5 p.m., $12, Hooker-Dunham Theater, 139 Main St., Brattleboro, (802) 254-9276.
