Val Kilmer Comes to San Jose Stage

San Jose Stage Company (Randall King, Artistic Director and Cathleen King, Executive Director), announced today that Val Kilmer will appear in person at the theatre on December 29 and December 30 to introduce two special film screenings of his one-man play about Mark Twain. The one-man show, CITIZEN TWAIN, has played to sold-out houses at performing arts venues nationwide.

"'The Stage Company is absolutely thrilled to present two Great American icons, as personified by consummate Actor/Master Craftsman Mr. Val Kilmer in his stage-to-film personification of one of our nation's greatest novelists & truly timeless humorists, Mark Twain," said Artistic Director, Randall King. "We are honored to have both men share The Stage with our audience!"

"I'm very happy to be appearing at The Stage to present CINEMA TWAIN," said Kilmer. "Talking about Mark Twain's love of humanity after the show is pure joy. He's such a great American, one might call him an honorary founding father; and such a great example to remind us to love our fellow man, rich or poor, black or white or red or yellow, blue or red, whether from the north or south, east or west - you get the idea! He loved us all with open laughing arms... And how willing he was to acknowledge his own faults. I'm having so much fun sharing the role I created for my stage play CITIZEN TWAIN and hope you'll all come out to The Stage to see it."

Kilmer, famous for his portrayals of iconic characters such as Jim Morrison (THE DOORS), Doc Holliday (TOMBSTONE) and Batman (BATMAN), inhabits the spirit of legendary American figure Mark Twain in this film of his acclaimed one-man show. A master of reinvention, Kilmer transforms himself into the "First American," Mark Twain, in a comedic and moving performance that is both contemporary and reflective. The piece is based on the life of the man, Samuel Clemens, and of course his writings as Mark Twain. From his thoughts on politics (including his famous disdain for the U.S. Congress), to his family and ultimately his faith and God, Twain spins a series of yarns with his timeless satire and incomparable wit.

Kilmer will introduce the 90-minute film and conduct a question and answer
period with the audience following the screening. For an additional $50.00 per person, VIP ticket holders will have an opportunity to meet Val, chat, and take photos after the Q&A.

Through powerful, provocative and profound theatre, San Jose Stage Company (The Stage) - now in its 34th season - seeks to expand community, forge creative partnerships, and challenge individuals in order to illuminate the human condition.