Talkin' Trash

Saturday, October 10, 2015
This event has already passed.
Sunday, October 11, 2015
This event has already passed.

Talkin' Trash, performed by Metro Theater Company, tells the story of Sam (played by Nicolas Tayborn), a young boy obsessed with trash and recycling. After Sam's father loses his job, Sam's family moves to a rundown neighborhood next door to an elderly woman who struggles with compulsive hoarding.

The two eventually become friends despite their six decade age difference. But when one of the neighborhood kids pressures Sam to betray the woman, their unlikely friendship is put to the test.

"It's a play about community, friendship and our relationship with 'stuff,'" said Nicholas Kryah, who was inspired to write the play by Sam Klein, a boy from St. Louis who was so fascinated by trash that he had his own recycling company by age 12. Kryah decided to introduce this boy to an elderly woman, who was once his next-door neighbor, who was obsessed with stuff and memories.

Economic stress, intergenerational divides, and community decay are purposely reoccuring themes in the play. Metro Theater's Artistic Director, Julia Flood, said she hopes Talkin' Trash will open a conversation about these issues.

"The way we treat the things and people viewed as 'throw-aways' by many in our community says a great deal about who we are," Flood said. "How do we open a dialogue with our young people about our shared responsibilities as neighbors and as global citizens?"

In addition to Tayborn, the play also stars Beckah Reed, Katy Keating and Michael Cassidy Flynn. 

Free performances are set for Saturday, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 11 at 2 p.m. at the Mainstage Auditorium at Clayton High School.

Talkin' Trash is appropriate for ages 5 and up, and best for grades 2 through 8. Performances are free but tickets must be reserved. 

For more information and to download free tickets, go to metroplays.org

 

Our Daily Things to Do email is the easiest way to plan your day.
Follow Us
 
Things to Do

Wild Lights at the Saint Louis Zoo

Delight in brilliant, colorful light displays with spectacular photo opportunities throughout the Zoo during Wild Lights. Walk through two tunnels with dazzling lights, and enjoy themed displays featuring snowflakes, candy canes, gumdrops, penguins, polar bears, tigers, giraffes and much more at this St. Louis family-favorite holiday tradition. New this year: Visits with Santa!

View this event »
Supper With Santa at The Butterfly House
Sunday, December 14, 2025

Santa is making a stop at The Butterfly House before he makes his trip around the world, and he wants to enjoy a meal with your family! Enjoy a delicious dinner, visit Santa's Workshop and Mrs. Claus's Cookie Kitchen, and have your picture taken with the guest of honor - Santa!

View this event »
Want daily ideas of things to do? How about special offers & giveaways? Sign up and we’ll handle the rest.
Popular Stories

The St. Louis Children’s Choirs Give Every Singer the Chance to Shine on Stage

Something beautiful happens every time a child performs their favorite song. Even if they stumble over a lyric or tumble off key, the joy they find in exploring their musical journey can be felt by those lucky enough to listen. When hundreds of these young voices come together on one stage, that’s when something truly magical happens.

Continue reading »
Your Guide to the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra's New Season of Concerts for Kids and Families

Whether kids are exploring the savannahs of Simba’s kingdom or traveling through the Marvel Universe, their adventures are set to an incredible live soundtrack that inspires a lifelong love of music. Here is your guide to the 2025-26 St. Louis Symphony Orchestra concerts for kids and families (and teens!).

Continue reading »
The Missouri History Museum Winter Getaway: Four Days of Free Fun and Learning for Your Family

This year’s annual Winter Getaway event is packed with free kid-friendly activities, performances, arts and crafts, and workshops that tie in with the Museum’s current collections and celebrate our city’s rich culture and holiday heritage.

Continue reading »
Miriam Celebrates Neurodiversity, Supports Unique Learners

At Miriam School, students with complex learning differences are supported and celebrated as they grow academically, socially and emotionally. Miriam provides a tailored educational experience for learners in grades K-12 who have not found success in traditional classroom settings. Students’ challenges may stem from specific learning disabilities (i.e. dyslexia or dysgraphia), ADHD, level 1 autism, sensory processing disorder, anxiety, or speech and language disorders.

Continue reading »
7 Signs Your Kids Are Ready For Their First Sleepaway Camp

It’s time to decide whether to send your kids to sleepaway camp, but how do you know that's the right thing to do? How can you tell whether your kids are ready for their first extended stay away from home? Here are 7 important signs that experts say should inform your decision.

Continue reading »
You Might Also Like...

From Our Sponsors
Follow Us