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THE LAST WIDE OPEN to Make Michigan Premiere at Theatre NOVA in Ann Arbor

Josie Eli Herman and Michael Alan Herman star in Audrey Cefaly's play, directed by Diane Hill.

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THE LAST WIDE OPEN to Make Michigan Premiere at Theatre NOVA in Ann Arbor

Theatre NOVA, Ann Arbor's resident nonprofit professional theatre specializing in new plays, will present the Michigan premiere of The Last Wide Open by Audrey Cefaly, a tender, time-bending romance unfolding across parallel possibilities. The production runs May 22 - June 14, 2026.

Across three brief acts, the lives of weary waitress Lina and immigrant dishwasher Mikołaj intersect in three different versions of the same connection-each shaped by choice, chance, and circumstance. Blending humor, heart, and a touch of theatrical magic, The Last Wide Open explores how even the smallest moments can alter the course of a life.

Performed with live music by the actors themselves, the production weaves song into the storytelling, creating an immediate and intimate theatrical experience.

The production stars real-life partners Josie Eli Herman as Lina and Michael Alan Herman as Mikołaj, bringing an added layer of authenticity and connection to this deeply felt story. Natalie Rose Sevick appears as Stagehand, supporting the show's live music.

Directed by Diane Hill, one of Theatre NOVA's Producing Artistic Directors, the production team includes Briana O'Neal (stage manager/props), Craig A. Hane (set designer/builder), Jade Guerriero (lighting designer), Toni Davison (Costume Designer), Brit Connors (sound designer), Mark Batell (props), Kat Walsh (intimacy director), and Avalon McNew (assistant to the lighting designer).

Blending humor, heart, and music, The Last Wide Open offers a fresh take on the love story-one that celebrates not just finding the right person, but finding the right moment.



Theater Fans' Choice Awards
2026 Theater Fans' Choice Awards - Live Stats
Best Direction of a Musical - Top 3
1. Michael Arden - The Lost Boys
26.3% of votes
2. Michael Mayer - Chess
12.1% of votes
3. Lear deBessonet - Ragtime
11.7% of votes

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