Third Rail Rep Opens SWEET AND SAD Tonight

Third Rail Repertory Theatre presents Sweet and Sad by Richard Nelson, directed by Scott Yarbrough*, opening tonight, September 27, 2013, and running through October 20, 2013.

The cast features Bruce Burkhartsmeier*, Isaac Lamb*, Rebecca Lingafelter*, Jacklyn Maddux*, Mike O'Connell*, Maureen Porter*

The Play: It's the 10th Anniversary of September 11 and the Apple family find themselves gathered together in Rhinebeck, NY for an impromptu lunch before heading off to an afternoon memorial service. While Uncle Benjamin rehearses for a reading, emotions run high as the Apples catch up on politics (both familial and political), tell ghost stories, tease each other mercilessly, and confront the difficulties of loss. Filled with humor and sorrow, SWEET AND SAD celebrates the challenges of life in 21st century America and features the returning cast from last season's hit show, THAT HOPEY CHANGEY THING.

The Playwright: Richard Nelson is a Tony Award and Olivier Award winning playwright who began writing the Apple Family plays because, as Americans, "we've become used to viewing our politics and our political landscape through the lens of journalists or commentators...what has been missing from our political forum is the individual's voice." His desire to "put conversations on stage, conversations which are not arguments, not someone trying to win something or push something..." led him to create a series of plays that would allow his characters and his audience "...that permission that we somehow don't allow ourselves on television anymore, because now it is all about taking sides, or expressing one's rage." SWEET AND SAD is the second of four Apple Family plays that Third Rail is producing over four seasons, exploring the real-life effect of national events on an average American family. What better way to take advantage of Third Rail's unique artistic model and core ensemble of actors, than with this highly ambitious project.

The show runs Sep 27 - Oct 20, 2013, Thursday-Saturday at 7:30pm, Sunday at 2:00pm at the Winningstad Theatre, PCPA, 1111 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97205. Tickets Available: By phone at 503.235.1101, online at thirdrailrep.org, or Portland Center for the performing Arts Box Office (1111 SW Broadway). Prices: Single tickets $20 - $43.

About Third Rail Repertory Theatre: Third Rail is an artist-driven theatre company whose vitality is defined by its audience's sharp appetite for groundbreaking, innovative work. We promote new plays while exploring The Edges of theatrical style. Third Rail exists to provide a home for artists and theatergoers alike, offering a range of experiences to be shared by the audience and the community. More information about Third Rail can be found at thirdrailrep.org.

* Denotes Third Rail Company Member

Photo Credit: Owen Carey