First Stage Work Exploring AIDS AS IS Revived by Regeneration Theatre

The Fragility of Life is explored in AS IS: Regeneration Theatre chooses one of the first works exploring AIDS from a personal point of view to open its 2018 season.

Regeneration Theatre presents AS IS by William M. Hoffman

February 1-11 (Feb. 1-3, 5, 8-10 @7:30 p.m.; Feb 4 & 11 @ 2:30 p.m.)

Workshop Theatre, 312 West 36th Street, NYC

Tickets are $18 and available at regeneration.brownpapertickets.com.

Imagine being ill with a strange unknown disease ... and nobody cared?

In 1985, when As Is first appeared at the Circle Theatre, AIDS was a new moment in time. A pandemic with no cure or reason. AS IS was one of the first plays, and subsequent teleplay, depicting how AIDS was affecting the LGBT Community. Its power was also in that it focused on a small group of friends - and what it did to them. It proceeded Larry Kramer's The Normal Heart by about a month.

THE PLOT: Saul and Rich are breaking up... but not for long. Rich has contracted the disease ravaging the gay community. Seeking safety back in Saul's arms, the two stage a play showing how family, doctors, and friends treat those with the disease. The play's parable shows how important it is to have someone you love by your side - especially in trying times ... as that is when you feel most alone.

William M. Hoffman's play evokes the love, fear, loss, and finally acceptance felt at the beginning of the AIDS crisis in 1980s New York City. Above all, it honors the essential people who persisted and became the light of hope in the darkest of times - the volunteers, home care workers, nurses, friends, and family. Today, the play is that much more biting as this country is embroiled in another time of crisis over politicized medical care. Playwright William M. Hoffman reminds us to recognize the simple fact that we are all human with very human needs, and rightfully deserve dignity in our weakest moments.

Featuring

Rich - Brian Alford
Saul - Robert Maisonett
Lily - Aury Krebs*
Chet - Daniel Colón
Brother - Colin Chapin*
Business Partner - Sara Minisquero
Hospice Worker - Jenne Vath*
Pat - Rick Calvo
Barney - Mario Claudio

Directed B. Marcus Gualberto
Set Design: Kiah Keyser
Stage Manager: Allison Hohman
ASM: Adan Sanchez

Regeneration Theatre is delighted to continue its 2017-18 season with this deeply moving piece. RT's mission is to bring back to life works that were neglected or underestimated during their initial NY runs. Recent revivals include Kennedy's Children and Come Back to the Five & Dime, and Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean.

*Appears courtesy of Actor's Equity Association