Abingdon Theatre Company Presents LIFELINE, Opening 3/18

Abingdon Theatre Company - which has produced 65 new American plays in its 18-year history - concludes its 2011-2012 Season with the world premiere of LIFELINE, a new play by Frank Tangredi, winner of the 2008 Christopher Brian Wolk Award, set to begin previews March 9, prior to its official press opening March 18, at the Abingdon Theatre Arts Complex's Dorothy Strelsin Theatre (312 West 36th Street). Jules Ochoa, who recently helmed HOW I FELL IN LOVE and PHANTOM KILLER, directs. In LIFELINE, when good-hearted Pete rents his basement to depressed, unstable Ken, there seems to be potential for a wonderful friendship. But, as he delves into Ken's world, Pete uncovers problems that might not be solved with a game of poker and a six-pack.

LIFELINE co-stars Lori Gardner (BLAME IT ON BECKETT at Abingdon, THE DEEP THROAT SEX SCANDAL), Carole Monferdini (FOUR PLACES at Merrimack Rep), Buzz Roddy (Off-Broadway's PERFECT CRIME), Brian Wallace (THE GOOD NEGRO at Public Theater), and Brit Whittle (LYRIC IS WAITING).

The production has scenic design by David Arsenault; lighting design by Travis McHale; sound design by Ian Wehrle; and costume design by Kimberly Matela. The Production Stage Manager is Mark Hoffner.

Frank Tangredi's PASTORAL, won the playwright the 2008 Christopher Brian Wolk Award, and was included in Pasadena Playhouse's 2010-2011 Season's "Hothouse" series, starring Angela Bassett. His previous works include GALATEA, DYLAN'S DADS, THACKERAY'S GHOST, ALONG THE FAULTLINE, EARLY, MILK, OF DOGS AND DOLPHINS, and BROTHER AND HIS KEEPERS.

Jules Ochoa directed Joel Field's HOW I FELL IN LOVE, presented last season at Abingdon Theatre Company. Other credits include Jan Buttram's PHANTOM KILLER and Frawley Becker's TIGER BY THE TAIL. As an assistant director, he has worked on Broadway's HIGH SOCIETY as well as revivals of MAN OF LA MANCHA and ROCKY HORROR SHOW.

Since 1993, Abingdon Theatre Company has developed and produced new plays by American Playwrights exclusively. Their actors, directors, designers, producers and dramaturgs have collaborated with more than 200 playwrights to develop original plays. Under the guidance of Artistic Director Jan Buttram and Managing Director Samuel J. Bellinger, the company provides a safe home in which playwrights collaborate with other theatre artists and receive audience feedback through readings and workout labs, culminating in full productions.

Currently at Abingdon Theatre Company with performances through February 26 is the world premiere of Jan Buttram's LOST ON THE Natchez Trace, directed by Kate Bushmann, starring Peter Brouwer and Leopold Lowe. LIFELINE is an Equity Approved Showcase.

LIFELINE runs March 9-April 1 at the Abingdon Theatre Arts Complex's Dorothy Strelsin Theatre (312 West 36th Street): Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7pm; Friday and Saturdays at 8pm; with 2pm matinees on Saturdays and Sundays (with the following exception: opening, Sunday, March 18 at 5pm). Tickets are $25. For tickets and more information about Abingdon Theatre Company (312 West 36th Street, between 8th and 9th Avenues), call 212-868-2055 or visit www.abingdontheatre.org.