Young actors present Neil Simon play

DOWNEY - The Warren High School drama department will present Neil Simon's complete "Eugene" trilogy at the campus's Emerson Theatre.The trilogy began this week with performances of "Brighton Beach Memoirs." Performances will continue through Dec. 11. The story follows a 15-year-old boy named Eugene Morris Jerome as he grows up in 1937 Brooklyn. Living with his extended family in a home filled with tension, Eugene is an ambitious, somewhat starry-eyed teenager who wants to be a writer. His father, Jack, works as a cutter in the garment trade, and his long, hard hours have wearied him. His mother, Kate, and her sister, Blanche, have harbored age old angers that finally explode. But Eugene also has some assets, such as an ability to see through life's short range problems and view matters with a cutting wit. As he interacts with relatives throughout the play, Eugene makes many witty observations about life and need for family. Due to subject matter, the play may not be suitable for younger audiences. The trilogy will continue Feb. 10-19 with "Biloxi Blues," Eugene's journey into the Army, and "Broadway Bound" (March 31 - April 9), his adventures writing comedy for the radio. Tickets are $8 and are available by calling (562) 869-7306, ext. 87910, or at www.emersontheatre.net. All proceeds will benefit the school's drama department and their continued quest for young adult theater.

********** Published: December 2, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 33