Alexander, Gets, Lewis Set for Actors' Fund 'Falsettos'

On Saturday, September 8th at 8 PM at the Wilshire Theatre (8440 Wilshire Blvd. Beverly Hills), The Actors' Fund will present a one-night-only engagement of Falsettos, with music and lyrics by William Finn (Spelling Bee) and book by Finn and James Lapine (Spelling Bee, Into the Woods).

The performance will star Tony-winner Jason Alexander (Jerome Robbins' Broadway, "Seinfeld") as Mendel, Malcolm Gets (Amour, Party Come Here at Williamstown) as Marvin, Vicki Lewis (Chicago, Damn Yankees) as Trina, Andrew Samonsky as Whizzer and Hudson Thames as Jason; more stars will be announced.  It will feature Music Direction by John McDaniel and direction by David Galligan.

Falsettos received 7 Tony nominations, winning for Best Book of a Musical and Best Score in 1992.  According to press notes, "Act 1, March of the Falsettos, is about how Marvin deals with his "family." He wants to be with Whizzer, but he does not want to lose the affections of his ex-wife and son. In the middle of all this, Marvin's psychiatrist, Mendel, is moving in on Trina, who he eventually marries. Marvin loses everyone in his frenzy not to do just that. Faced with this reality, he tries to talk to his son, who has been trying to deal with the fact that his father is gay, and gives him some fatherly advice that he must march to his own tune. In the end he has at least salvaged his relationship with Jason."

"Act 2, Falsettoland, takes place two years later. Jason is almost ready to be bar mitzvahed, and is worrying about which girls to invite. Two other characters are introduced in this act, Charlotte and Cordelia, the lesbians from next door. Marvin and Whizzer get back together and Marvin finally learns to love unselfishly and unconditionally. At this point, Whizzer is struck with a horrible, life-threatening disease, which the audience knows is AIDS. As Whizzer dies, the audience sees that after all that Marvin has been through, he will lose what is most precious to him. Marvin's 'family,' however, consisting of the other characters in the show, gather around him and by being there, offer their love and support."

The Actors Fund is a nationwide human services organization that helps all professionals - both performers and those behind the scenes - in performing arts and entertainment.  Founded in 1882 - and celebrating its 125th Anniversary this year -  The Fund serves those in film, theatre, television, music, opera, and dance with a broad spectrum of programs including comprehensive social services, health services, supportive and affordable housing, emergency financial assistance, employment and training services, and skilled nursing and assisted living care.  Administered from offices in Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago, The Actors Fund is a safety net, providing programs and services for those who are in need, crisis, or transition.

For tickets call 323.933.9244x58 or for additional information, go to www.actorsfund.org  Tickets are: VIP Orchestra, $250 (includes post-performance reception with the cast), Orchestra, $150, Rear Orchestra, $100, Front Mezzanine, $100, Mezzanine, $75, Balcony, $60, Rear Balcony, $30 (Sponsorship packages available).

Photos - Jason Alexander, Malcolm Gets, Vicki Lewis and Andrew Samonsky

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