After what seems like an eternity of pandemic-related streamed productions, Pittsburgh Public Theater heads outdoors for performances of Neil Simon’s much-beloved Barefoot in the Park in the park at the Allegheny Overlook. Pittsburgh theater goers have embraced outdoor performances in droves this summer, and this show is no exception. This week’s performances are sold out, but there is another opportunity in September to see this pop-up show. We will tell you how at the end of this preview.
Barefoot was Neil Simon’s first smash success, premiering on Broadway in 1963 and running for nearly four years. Pittsburgh Public Theater pop-up performances of this bubbly romantic comedy will prove that young love never goes out of style.
Newlyweds Corie (a romantic free spirit played by Jamie Slavinski) and Paul Bratter (a straight-laced lawyer played by Joe McGranaghan) are over the moon to begin their lives together in their new apartment in Manhattan. It may be small and a six-flight climb, the heating may be busted, and snow may be falling through the skylight, but nothing can quash their newlywed bliss. Against Paul’s advice, Corie decides to set her conservative widowed mother (Chris Laitta) up with their eccentric, bohemian neighbor Victor Velasco (Jeff Howell) who skis, climbs mountains, and is known as “The Bluebeard of 48th Street.” A wild night ensues, one that highlights just how different Corie and Paul are. The young couple must learn how to accept and embrace their differences as they realize that marriage is no easy walk in the park.
The Public’s production features Connor McCanlus as Telephone Repair Man, Jason Shavers as Host & Narrator, and features original music by Doug Levine. Barefoot is Directed by Marya Sea Kaminski, the Public’s Artistic Director.
Performances from August 3rd to 7th at the Allegheny Overlook are sold out. However, additional performances are available from September 9th to 11th as part of the Cultural Trusts Lights on Celebration. You can register for tickets here: https://pct.formstack.com/forms/barefoot_lightson
Categories: Show Previews
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