Playhouse has ‘Big’ plans for upcoming season

By Guy D’Astolfo

A special production of ‘Glengarry Glen Ross’ will precede the start of the season.

YOUNGSTOWN — The Youngstown Playhouse’s 2008-09 season ranges from the eye-popping physical farce of “Noises Off” to the regional debut of “Big” and the classic musical “West Side Story.”

“I absolutely love this line-up,” said John Holt, managing director of the Playhouse. “There’s something for everyone in there. From extreme farce and comedy, to murder-mystery, to a brand new musical for the holidays, a Tennessee Williams favorite and a closing show that is an absolute classic. Plus, we’re bringing back a dinner-theater musical. It will be a great year.”

The upcoming season opens Aug. 22 with the madcap farce “Noises Off.” A backstage look at a dysfunctional troupe that is staging a comedy, it will run for two weekends. Sean Lockaton will direct.

Here’s a look at the remainder of the season:

U“Company,” Sept. 26-Oct. 4, directed by Holt. Underscored by the sounds and rhythms of New York City, “Company” follows anti-hero bachelor Robert through a series of encounters with women as he contemplates the pros and cons of marriage.

U“And Then There Were None,” Oct. 31-Nov. 8, directed by David El’Hatton. Eight house guests who don’t know each other find themselves stuck in a deadly situation in this classic Agatha Christie murder-mystery.

U“Big, the Musical,” Dec. 5-20, directed by Holt. Adapted from the 1987 movie, it involves a frustrated adolescent who wakes up one morning as a grown man.

U“I Do, I Do!”, Feb. 20 to March 1, directed by J.E. Ballantyne Jr. Marriage is at the center of this nostalgic work in this dinner-theater production in the Moyer Room.

U“Blood Brothers,” March 13-28, directed by Michael Moritz. Twins grow up in the same neighborhood, although neither knows he has a blood brother in this tragic musical.

U“A Streetcar Named Desire,” April 17-25, directed by John Cox. The Tennessee Williams classic about romantic illusions and madness.

U“West Side Story,” May 29-June 13, directed by John Holt. Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” is transported to modern-day New York City in this tale of love and war. Written by Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim.

Before the season starts, the Playhouse will present a special production of David Mamet’s “Glengarry Glen Ross,” July 18 to 26. It is not suitable for those under 17 because of language.

A couple of changes will be introduced this season. The Playhouse will move starting times up a half-hour to 7:30 p.m. for Fridays and Saturdays, said Holt. Sunday matinees will remain at 2:30 p.m.

Also, shows will end their runs on Saturday nights instead of Sunday afternoons, and some productions are being limited to two weeks, instead of the customary three.

Season ticket packages are now available by calling the box office at (330) 788-8739. A seven-show package is $90 ($75 for seniors and students).