Penned by Stephen Bergman and Janet Surrey, the new work began previews Feb. 16 and opened March 5 at New World Stages, Stage 2.
Dr. Patrick Carnes ("Don't Call It Love"), a specialist in sexual addiction and recovery issues, kicks off the series May 1. Continuing the discussions on May 17 will be noted best-selling medical novelist Samuel Shem ("The House of God"). Also scheduled for May is Christopher D. Smithers Foundation president Adele Smithers.
Bill W. and Dr. Bob depicts the relationship between Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith, "two hopeless drunks whose sometimes stormy friendship . . . led to the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous," as show materials describe.
Rick Lombardo, who staged the sold-out Boston run at New Repertory Theatre last year, returned to direct the Off-Broadway engagement. The returning original cast includes Robert Krakovski (as Bill W.), Patrick Husted (Dr. Bob), Rachel Harker (Lois Wilson), Kathleen Doyle (Anne Smith) with Marc Carver and Deanna Dunmyer.
The design team features Anita Fuchs (scenic), Jane Alois Stein (costume), Daniel Meeker (lighting) and Lombardo (sound). Incidental music is composed by Ray Kennedy. The Off-Broadway run of Bill W. and Dr. Bob is produced by Bradford S. Lovette, Dr. Michael and Judith Weinberg, Milton McKenzie, Evelyn Freed and New Repertory Theatre. A release notes the "presentation does not imply affiliation with nor approval or endorsement from Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc."
Tickets to Bill W. and Dr. Bob at New World Stages, 340 West 50th Street, are available by calling (212) 239-6200 or by visiting the theatre box office. For more information visit billwanddrbob.com.