The Working Theatre explores cultural diversity in a social setting with the New York premiere of Bruce Graham's Belmont Avenue Social Club, ending its scheduled run at the INTAR Theater (420 West 42nd) May 16. Previews began April 17 for an official opening April 22.
Belmont Avenue Social Club looks at five loyal club patrons as they grapple with issues such as race, media, loyalty and betrayal in their elite world. As the men desperately attempt to retain status and power in their social lives, their outside worlds are crashing down around them.
Belmont premiered at the Philadelphia Festival Theatre in 1990. It has since been produced in Albany at the Capitol Rep and in Evanston at the Northlight Theatre and in New Jersey by the Grove Street Playhouse.
Graham has been a playwright-in-residence at the Philadelphia Festival Theatre for eight years. Previous works include Desperate Affections and Minor Demons, which recently ran Off-Broadway at the Century Theatre. Also a screenplay writer, Graham is the author of "Dunston Checks In," starring Faye Dunaway and the animated "Anastasia."
The producer of Belmont, The Working Theatre, is dedicated to bringing culturally diverse plays, exploring the working world, to the stage. Director Constance Grappo has staged numerous plays including Spread Eagle, Century City and On House. Grappo also directed the Canadian and Australian premieres of Little Shop of Horrors.
The cast of Belmont includes William Wise, David Kener, Malachy Cleary, Ernest Mingione and Michael P. Moran.
Belmont Avenue Social Club began previews April 17, opened April 22 and runs through May 16. Tickets are available through Ticket Central at (212) 279-4200.
-- By Becki Heller
