Rust Belt presents local playwright’s work

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

Rust Belt Theater Company will present the locally written play “Conversations” for four performances beginning Friday.

A series of absurdist comedy vignettes that poke fun of high society, “Conversations” was written by local writer, artist and businessman Roger Jones. It is being directed by Robert Dennick Joki, executive director of Rust Belt.

“Conversations has been a real challenge for us,” said Joki. “The dialog reminds me of Samuel Beckett or Eugene Ionesco. We did one of Roger’s plays last year, and it was very well-received, so we were very excited to receive a submission this year.”

Cast members include David Cirelli, Brittiani Ketcham, Celena Pollock Coven, Kage Coven, Beth Farrow, Hunter Thomas and Jo Ellen Jacob.

Jones has written several other plays, including “The Reunion,” “On the Way to the Corn Roast,” “This Moment Stays With Me Easily” and “Adversaries.” He is the chairman of the board at Fireline Inc., and also has some of his original artwork on display at the Butler Museum of American Art.

A reception will follow the opening-night performance.