Actor David Marshall Grant's playwriting debut, Snakebit, may join other Off-Broadway shows like Wit and This Is Our Youth in parlaying critical raves and audience interest into a commercial move. Snakebit press rep Don Summa (of the Richard Kornberg office) confirmed Dec. 14 that a move was being discussed and that several producers had expressed interest. No decision have yet been made, however.
Snakebit, which opened on Nov. 22 at the Grove Street Playhouse (previews from Nov. 12) has been extended until Dec. 20. Summa said the Naked Angels production could not be extended further at the Grove Street due to Equity restrictions.
As an actor, Grant is known for his stage role as Joe Pitt in Broadway's Angels in America, and as a recurring character in ABC's "thirtysomething." The play concerns a trio of friends facing a crossroads in their lives and friendships.
The cast includes David Alan Basche (OB's Visiting Mr. Green ), Jodie Markell (Lincoln Center's Road ), Geoffrey Nauffts (The Maiden's Prayer ) and Michael Weston (Williamstown's The Matchmaker ). Designers are Dean Taucher (set), Elizabeth Roles (costumes), Renee Molina (lighting). Joy Huang is producer.
The nonprofit Naked Angels was founded by a group of writers, actors and theatre artists in 1986. This is the 13th season for the company, which developed and premiered Jon Robin Baitz's The Substance of Fire and A Fair Country, Nicky Silver's Fat Men in Skirts and more. Other Off-Broadway successes which have gone on to longer runs this season include Wit, This Is Our Youth, Killer Joe. Another OB show, the Public Theatre's Stop Kiss, is also reported to be a candidate for transfer.
Grove Street Playhouse is at 39 Grove, between Bleecker and Hudson. Tickets are $12. Call (212) 479-7304.
-- By Robert Simonson
