Irih Rep Theatre Extends Corwin's THE RIVALRY Through 7/19

The Irish Repertory Theatre (132 West 22nd Street) has announced that it will extend Norman Corwin's THE RIVALRY, which brings to life the great Lincoln/Douglas debates of 1858 and the private drama behind the scenes - until July 19, 2009. Vincent Dowling directs.

Don't miss this RARE OPPORTUNITY to see fine actors perform this riveting drama directed by Vincent Dowling, former Artistic Director of Ireland's National Theatre, The Abbey Theatre of Dublin.

In 1858, two extraordinary men shared a podium to debate issues that would rock the world. Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas, the nation's most charismatic orators, tackled these historic debates with fervor and an energy that hypnotized the nation. Behind the public drama, an equally tantalizing scenario was unfolding.

Using their passionate words, playwright Norman Corwin opens the world of the past with searing intensity and offers a play as trailblazing as the real life characters who inhabit it. In this year of the historic election of President Barack Obama corresponding to the 200th Anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln the topics addressed in THE RIVALRY have never been more timely or more brilliantly brought to life.

Christian Kauffmann portrays Abraham Lincoln, Peter Cormican brings "the Little Giant," Stephen Douglas to fiery life, Mary Linda Rapelye as Adele Douglas and Doug Stender as the Republican Committeeman complete the cast.

Performances of THE RIVALRY are Wednesday - Saturday at 8 PM, Matinees are Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday at 3 PM. Tickets to THE RIVALRY are $65 and $55 and can be purchased by calling (212) 727-2737 or at the Box Office. The Irish Repertory Theatre is located at 132 West 22nd Street, between 6th and 7th Avenues. For more information, visit The Irish Rep website, www.irishrep.org.