GreenMan Theatre Commemorates 10th Anniversary of 9/11 with 'The Guys'

Elmhurst's GreenMan Theatre has announced its cast for their 2011 Showcase Production, "The Guys," by Anne Nelson.

“The Guys” premiered in December 2001 at the Flea Theater in New York. Bill Murray and Sigourney Weaver originated the roles of Nick and Joan in the first production. It is about an editor who assists a New York Fire Department captain in the preparation of eulogies for the numerous firefighters who died under his command during the aftermath of the World Trade Center collapse.

Chuck Jacobson and Cheryl Rice, both of Elmhurst, will appear in the two-character play. 

Jacobson performs the role of the fire captain, Nick. He brings extensive experience as an actor, in both community and professional theater. Chuck has appeared in numerous GreenMan productions, including “The Odd Couple” and “Nevermore.” He has also appeared in “Hizzoner” at Chicago’s Prop Theatre.

Rice will take the character of Joan, the editor assisting Nick. She is an accomplished actor and has graced GreenMan's stage in “The Rimers of Eldritch” and “I Only Have Ives for You.” She has acted with many local theaters, including Elgin’s Vex Theatre.

GreenMan’s artistic director, David Soria of Lombard, will direct the production. Chuck Erickson of Addison and Jim Ocasek of Elmhurst head up the technical crew, designing sets and lights. Katie Monahan of Oak Park is assistant director. 

The play is based on Anne Nelson’s own experiences in the aftermath of Sept. 11, when she was contacted by a New York fire captain to assist him as Joan does in the play. Nelson writes that her play is “the story of two people struggling to express grief and compassion in the midst of catastrophe.”

She goes on to say that “the theme, and the intent, of the play is to give comfort through language.”

The New York Times wrote that "The Guys" is not an ordinary night in the theater:

"What comes through is that humanity can be exalted by expression as well as the other way around.”

Performances will take place at First United Methodist Church, 232 S. York St., in Elmhurst. The show opens Sept. 9 and runs two weekends, through Sept. 18. Performances are Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. Tickets are $17, and $15 for students and seniors; there is free parking at the church. Student and other groups are welcome. 

For more information about the production call 630-464-2646, or visitwww.greenmantheatre.com to purchase tickets. Discounts are available for GreenMan season subscribers.