Photo Flash: New Musical Comedy The EVOLUTION OF MANN Premieres Off-Broadway

Nancy Manocherian's the cell presents the New York Premiere of THE EVOLUTION OF MANN, a musical featuring music & lyrics by Drama Desk nominee Douglas J. Cohen (Children's Letters to God, The Opposite of Sex) and book & lyrics by Dan Elish (13: The Musical) based on his novel, Nine Wives. Directed by Joe Barros (Bastard Jones), the production stars Max Crumm (Grease, Disaster!) in the title role, with Allie Trimm (13: The Musical and Bye Bye Birdie on Broadway) and Leslie Hiatt. This limited run Off-Broadway engagement runs through October 21 at the cell.

THE EVOLUTION OF MANN follows Henry Mann, a thirty-something single New Yorker eager to settle down...or so he thinks. After receiving an invitation to his ex-fiancée's wedding, he and his lesbian roommate embark on a quest to find Henry's soulmate, his perfect date. THE EVOLUTION OF MANN is a musical comedy that explores love in all its forms and how to build a lasting relationship in the 21st century.

The production team includes music supervisor Vadim Feichtner (Spelling Bee, Falsettos revival), Eric Svejcar (Music Direction), Libby Stadstad (set), Chris Steckel (lighting), Siena Zoë Allen (costumes), Nathan Scheuer (projections), Kristyn Smith (sound design), Matt Aument (Orchestration), Wojcik | Seay Casting (Casting), Kayla Santos (production stage manager), Brian Reager (associate director) and Liz Flemming (associate producer).

THE EVOLUTION OF MANN runs September 23 - October 21; Tuesday - Friday at 8pm and Saturday at 3pm & 8pm, and Sunday at 3pm. the cell is located at 338 W 23rd St, between 8th & 9th Avenues -- accessible from the C & E trains at 23rd Street. Tickets range from $25 - $55 and are available at 800-838-3006 or www.thecelltheatre.org.

Photo Credit: Carol Rosegg