Deep Blue Sound
Deep Blue Sound is a drama by American writer Abe Koogler. Set in present-day Vashon Island, Washington, it follows several townspeople as they try to figure out why local whales have disappeared. One resident, Ella, is dying of cancer and wants to use the Death with Dignity Act.
The play premiered Off-Broadway with Clubbed Thumb during the summer season. It was directed by Arin Arbus, with set design by dots and lighting by Isabella Byrd. Maryann Plunkett won an Obie Award for Distinguished Performance for her role.
The title refers to a group of Eastern North Pacific gray whales known locally as “the Sounders,” who migrate through Puget Sound from March to May. Whale watching is a popular local activity.
A later staging took place at The Public Theater’s Shiva Theatre, with Plunkett returning as Ella and Arin Arbus directing. Previews began February 25, and the run was extended to April 5, 2025, due to strong ticket sales and positive reviews.
The production received a Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Play, and Plunkett was nominated for Outstanding Featured Performance in a Play.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 09:40 (CET).