NY Classical Theatre to Present Free 'Recruiting Officer'

The New York Classical Theatre will present the rarely-performed classic The Recruiting Officer by George Farquhar, running Aug. 2-26 during the company's 8th Season of free theatre in Central Park.

Directed by Grant Neale, the production begins previews July 31, and opens August 2; it will run through August 26 at West 103rd Street and CPW inside Central Park.  All ages are welcome to the free performance.

"Love, war and money. War as a means to love? Love as a means to money? Money as a result of war? This comedic masterpiece asks what is the real cost of happiness. And, why do young men always like to play with swords?," as the show is described in press materials.  The cast includes: Laura Butler, John-Patrick Driscoll, Erik Gratton, Sean Hagerty, Torsten Hillhouse, LeeAnne Hutchison, Shad Ramsey, Rickey Ryerson, Katie Sigismund, Kate Stein and Ron Cohen.

"Stephen Burdman, New York Classical Theatre's Artistic Director, will direct you in the right direction, so you won't miss a thing. When you enter at West 103rd Street and Central Park West you will be led into the park where the play will begin. Central Park's grounds set the stage for this production and then the fun really begins!"

"As you watch the show, the next scene that is about to happen starts about 50 feet away, and then we are off. The whole audience follows the actors to where the scene is taking place every 10-15 minutes, so no snoozing during this show!The play begins at West 103rd Street and moves around the lake using footbridges, trees, rocks, benches and even the audience as scenery!  Wear comfortable shoes or sneakers. The show is wheelchair accessible and also,  perfect to bring the little ones in their strollers (no problem if they fall asleep).  As the sun goes down, Stephen and his crew - - with a little help from Central Park's fireflies - -  will light the show.

For the second year, too, New York Classical Theatre along with Central Park Conservancy, will run a free, 45 minute Classical Workshop for Children at the same location of 103rd Street and CPW.  This workshop is for kids ages 7-12 and will be held the last two Saturday's and Sunday's, Aug 18, 19, 25 and 26 at 5:00 pm-5:45PM (parents/guardians required). No reservations are necessary; just show up. "Pack a picnic for after the workshop and then enjoy the show at 7pm!"

No reservations are needed for The Recruiting Officer; call 212-252-4531 or visit www.newyorkclassical.org for more information.

Photo by Miranda Arden - Shad Ramsey and Joshua Decker