Ken Ludwig's LEND ME A TENOR Comes to The Long Beach Playhouse

Ken Ludwig's Lend me a Tenor is one of the best modern American farces to hit the stage. A madcap mix of mistaken identity, drugged-induced confusion, lustful shenanigans, and operatic impersonation, it's received several nominations including best new comedy, best play and best revival. It's a show that leaves audiences gasping for their next breath!

Set in Ohio in 1934, the world famous tenor known as Il Stupendo, has indulged in a double dose of tranquilizers and is presumed dead. The fate of the Cleveland Grand Opera hangs in the balance. Can a young assistant succeed in impersonating the famed opera legend? And what in the world happens when the presumed deceased star wakes up and realizes the show must go on? Brilliance and stupidity have never blended so seamlessly!

Brilliantly cast by director Gregory Cohen and Playhouse Artistic Director Sean Gray, the play's 8 actors embrace the fast pace of the action and the laugh lines. "Playhouse audiences love comedies, said Gray. "And this one will not be an exception. The cast has that indefinable connection we call chemistry. It's a special magic that brings out the best in everyone."

Cohen agrees. He said his sides ached from laughing so hard at the first table read. Cohen is a veteran actor and director. He's had many successes at the Playhouse including 30 turns in the director's chair. Previous shows include Guys and Dolls and Around the World in 80 Days.

"Lend Me a Tenor is the perfect show for the Mainstage," said Playhouse Executive Director, Madison Mooney. "The shape of the stage and the nearness of the audience and the actors is perfect for the madcap pace and the physical comedy."

Among the shows 8 actors, many are returning favorites including Karl Schott, 'Phie Mura, Russell Malang, Brendan Kane, and Melinda Parker. Making debuts are Liz Alvarado, Zachary Salas, and Bridget Rago.

The show opens February 23 and runs through March 23, 2019.

SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THIS PLAY:

• Pay what you can Thursday February 21 - community can see this production for whatever they can afford
• Two for One Preview Friday February 22 - Tickets are $10.00
• Opening Night Champagne Reception with cast on February 23 - Tickets are $27.00

Friday: Adults are $20.00, Seniors $18.00, and Students $14.00 Saturday and Sunday: Adults are $24.00, Seniors $21.00, and Students $14.00. Tickets are available at www.lbplayhouse.org, or by calling 562-494-1014, option 1.

Long Beach Playhouse is located at 5021 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach, CA, 90804, right across from the Long Beach Recreation golf course. The Playhouse is community-supported theatre with programs and events that cut across age, gender, ethnic, and cultural boundaries. Performances are 8 p.m. Friday, and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. The box office is open Wednesday-Saturday from 3:00-8:00 pm and Sundays from 1:00-2:00 pm on scheduled matinees.

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