Island City Stage to present James L. Beller's SON

Island City Stage presents the world premiere of James L Beller, Jr.'s riveting new drama, "Son". Previews begin April 6 with the official opening night on Saturday April 8.

On the morning of their wedding, the teenage son of a lesbian couple is confronted with a shocking accusation. "Son" explores the devastating impact of the past on the present as a relationship is tested and secrets revealed.

When playwright Beller is asked about what inspired the creation of the play he sheepishly replies that, "a single idea inspired this play, but to reveal that would be a spoiler. When I started working on the script, I realized that I wanted to explore how a crisis can affect a family, as a unit and as individuals, and especially what it does to non-traditional relationships."

Artistic Director Andy Rogow credits the discovery of the play to a member of his board of directors. " Jim Walker told me he had a friend in DC who was a playwright and he asked if I would read his latest script. I'm often a little leery about reading plays written by friends of friends as it can tricky handling people's feelings if the play isn't any good. However, I was surprised at how engrossing "Son" was on my initial reading, and the lesbian couple at the center of the play immediately drew my attention."

The production is being directed by Associate Artistic Director Michael Leeds and features Carbonell-nominee Elizabeth Price, Arlette Del Toro and Erynn Dalton who most recently starred in Island City's hit production of "Perfect Arrangement", area favorite Sabrina Gore and newcomer Gabe DeWitt. The production design team includes scenic designer Michael McClain, costume designer Peter Lovello, sound designer David Hart and lighting designer Travis Neff who is making his debut with Island City.

"Son" runs Apr. 6 through May 7 with performances on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 5:00 p.m. The theatre is located at 2304 N Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. All tickets are $35 and can be reserved online at islandcitystage.org or by calling the box office at 954-519-2533.

PHOTO - Playwright Jim Beller