Shalhoub to Join Heaton in Second Stage's The Scene

"Monk" star and theatre veteran Tony Shalhoub will join the previously-announced Patricia Heaton ("Everybody Loves Raymond") for the New York premiere of Theresa Rebeck's The Scene, according to the New York Times.

The new play by the author of Mauritius, The Family of Mann and Spike Heels will begin previews at Second Stage Theatre on December 12th and open on January 11th.  It will run through February 4th.

A hit in its previous Humana incarnation, the play will be directed by Barrymore Award-winner Rebecca Taichman (Green Violin in Philadelphia).  "Using the surreal world of Manhattan party-goers as its background, The Scene is a shrewd and bitter comedy about the empty narcissism of American pop culture," state press notes.  "Clea's ready to make it.  Charlie's trying to retake it.  Lewis wants to change it.  And Stella is simply over it.  It's the New York entertainment 'scene' in all its boozing, schmoozing and using glory."

Shalhoub is a three-time Emmy-winner for his work in the title role of "Monk."  His film credits include Cars, Something More, Men in Black II, The Man Who Wasn't There, Spy Kids, The Siege, Primary Colors, Men in Black, Big Night, the TV version of Gypsy, and Barton Fink.  On Broadway, he has been seen in Conversations with My Father, The Heidi Chronicles and The Odd Couple, as well as Off-Broadway in For Dear Life, Rameau's Nephew, Henry IV Part I, Richard II and more.

More casting will be announced.

Visit www.secondstagetheatre.com for tickets and more information.