The high-altitude comedy, The Man in the Flying Lawn Chair, will begin performances at Off-Off-Broadway's 78th Street Theatre Lab on July 6. The show officially opens July 20, and will run through August 12.

The ensemble-created piece investigates the true life of Larry Walters, who, with the help of fifty surplus weather balloons, launched himself to 16,000 feet in an aluminum lawn chair, where he was spotted by passing aircraft. After his fifteen minutes of fame were up, he still secured himself the status of a cult hero for outcasts and daredevils.

Eric Nightengale, Theatre Lab’s Artistic Director, conceived and directed the show. The production is the newest installment of 78th Street Theatre Lab’s ongoing series “From Page to Stage.” Here, work is developed from newspapers, and inspiration is pulled from events on the front pages.

Toby Wherry stars as Larry Walters. Wherry was seen in Lab’s production of The Packwood Papers. Other cast members include Carey Cromelin, Monica Read, Kimberly Reiss, and Troy W. Taber.

Director Nightengale has directed The Packwood Papers, The Undoing and The Frog Prince at the 78th Street Theatre Lab, as well as several other productions there. Outside credits include the Victory Gardens Theatre, Chicago Dramatists Workshop and Second City. He also served as the Associate Artistic Director for the Developing Artists Series at the Drama League of New York. Man in the Flying Lawn Chair tickets are $12. Ticket information and reservations can be made by calling (212) 873-9050.

-- Daniel Fischer