New John Cariani Play LAST GAS Opens at Shadowland Stages Today

Shadowland Stages' 32nd Season opens with the Hudson Valley premiere of Last Gas, a newly published romantic comedy by John Cariani. The show opens today, June 3 and runs through June 19 with performances Thursday thru Saturday at 8pm and Sundays at 2pm. A special, 'first Saturday' matinee will be held on Saturday June 4 at 2pm.

Directed by Shadowland Stages Artistic Director Brendan Burke, Last Gas stars Ben Williams*, Zach Gibson, Ray Faiola*, Samantha Rosentrater*, Caroline Kinsolving*, and Chris Tennison. [* = member, Actor's Equity Association]

"Like all of John Cariani's works, Last Gas is a story populated with genuine people. There is a recognizable universality to their circumstances and values," says Director Burke. "We easily identify with the characters, and this story, which is so accessible and relevant. Also, it's sweet and funny."

Last Gas tells the story of lonely Nat Paradis, who runs his family's convenience store in rural northern Maine. A part-time dad, Nat's boring life suddenly sparks to life when an old flame returns home to bury her mom, on the very same day Nat's best friend shows up with the gift of a lifetime: Red Sox vs. Yankees tickets. The pressure on Nat to make the right choice grows with unwelcome input from his son's mom (a forest ranger who can't stop writing summonses), and his own father (a randy senior citizen busy wooing young Canadians). Ultimately, Nat must choose the path to true happiness in this surprising and bittersweet comedy.

Playwright John Cariani also wrote Almost, Maine and Love/Sick - both of which were produced at Shadowland to great acclaim. Cariani is one of the most produced playwrights in North America and currently stars in the hit Broadway musical Something Rotten.

The Portland Press-Herald called Last Gas "Very funny... and surprisingly thought-provoking." Trib Live said, "Prepare yourself for some delightful twists and surprises." The Democrat & Chronicle declared "An undeniable winner!"

The set for Last Gas was designed by Bill Lelbach, with lighting design by Mitchell Ost. Costume designer is Aletta Vett and sound design is by Jeff Knapp.

Tickets are on sale now for Last Gas. Evening performances are $39, Sunday matinees are $34. Tickets for the 'First Saturday Matinee' are just $29. Tickets can be ordered through the Box Office at 845-647-5511, or online at www.shadowlandstages.org.

Shadowland Stages is a professional theatre located in Ellenville, NY. Shows are produced at the theatre using professional Equity actors, and professional directors and designers. The theatre operates under a contract with Actors' Equity Association.

Shadowland Stages is located at 157 Canal Street in Ellenville.