COSTA MESA, CA -- South Coast Repertory's Young Conservatory (YC) will mount the world premiere of JoAnna Downey's Generation Why?, a play about teens performed for teens on the SCR Second Stage June 5 and 6.

The play will be presented by the Teen Players' ensemble of advanced students and directed by YC instructor Laurie Woolery. Performances are Sat. June 5 at 4 & 7 PM; and Sun. June 6 at 2 & 5 PM. All tickets are $5.

"No one understands the problems faced by the young people who have been labeled 'Generation Y' better than the kids themselves," said Downey. "In writing the play, I drew extensively from the actors' experiences."

The play takes place in a cyber cafe where a bunch of kids gather to talk about their experiences and get to know each other -- and themselves -- better. Among the confused teenagers hoping to be considered cool are a cheerleader who drinks too much and a girl smart enough to get into Harvard but unable to find a boyfriend. In showing different sides of the same person, Downey encourages young people in the audience to identify with the characters on stage.

Cast members include Jillian Buschauer, James Cargill, Nicole Crocker, Jennifer Dillon, Elizabeth Gutman, Julia Hochner, Lindsay Kaufmann, Jason Lau, Stephanie Lincoln, Matthew Reiff, Kamarr Richee, Katie Richey, Corie Rosen and Britani Webster. For tickets call the SCR box office at (714) 708-5555. For information about the YC call (714) 708-5577.

-- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent