When Jeff Baron left his corporate career to become a writer, he probably hoped that at least one of his plays would be produced all over the country. His first hit, Visiting Mr. Green, is doing just that.

After its successful run of over 400 performances at Off-Broadway's Union Square Theatre, the play will start the 2000 season at Shadowland Theatre of Ellenville, NY. The story about two men who develop an unlikely friendship will be helmed by Shadowland veteran Brendan Burke, who directed Wait Until Dark last season at the theatre.

Playing the role of the elderly Jewish widower who wanders into traffic is newcomer to the Shadowland's stage David Greenwood. And taking on the role of the young executive who nearly mauls the elderly Mr. Green is an old favorite of Shadowland audiences, John Kooi (I Hate Hamlet).

Visiting Mr. Green opens May 26 and will run Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays until June 18. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 8 PM and Sunday’s matinee curtain is 2 PM. Tickets range $13-$18 and can be purchased through the box office, 157 Canal Street in Ellenville, from noon-5:30 PM Tuesdays through Saturdays at (914) 647-5511.

-- by Ernio Hernandez