Nanaimo Theatre Group presents Neil Simon’s Lost in Yonkers as its debut play of the season.
The play is about two teenaged boys, Jay, played by Darrian Gaetz, and Arty, played by Duncan Walker, who live with their grandmother after their mother dies.
During their stay the two boys get to know other members of their family including uncle Louie a small-time gangster, aunt Bella, a naive young woman and aunt Gertrude, who has problems speaking.
Sheila Coultish, director, said Simon’s work appeals to her because of its depth.
“I am a fan of his. I love his work because he gives great depth to his characters and this gives the actors quite a lot to work with,” said Coultish. “He has young characters. We don’t often have a chance to have young characters in our plays.”
Coultish said the play is both comedic and emotionally touching.
“It is a very tender story of this family, but it’s also infused with a lot of Neil Simon’s wit,” she said. “There’s a blend, a mix of moments that will pull at heartstrings and lots of moments that will make you laugh.”
The characters are also written in a believable way so audience members can relate to them, said Coultish.
Cast members include Kyla Mitrovic, Susan Evans, Kelly Kijek, Lorne Freedman and Wendy Karpuik.
Nanaimo Theatre Group’s production of Lost in Yonkers debuts Thursday (Oct. 13) at 8 p.m. at Bailey Studio, located at 2373 Rosstown Rd.
“The actors are really looking forward to having an audience,” said Coultish.
Lost in Yonkers runs Friday and Saturday (Oct. 14-15) and Oct. 19-22 and 26-29 at 8 p.m. Matinees are at 2 p.m. on Oct. 16 and Oct. 23.
Tickets are $20 and are available by calling 250-758-7224 or www.nanaimotheatregroup.ca.
arts@nanaimobulletin.com