Center Stage Ends Historic Run of 'ReEntry' Sunday, December 19, 2010

I recall a former ad campaign for Center Stage which used the three word mantra "Smart, Bold, Alive". If any production would fit that description it is ReEntry which ends its successful run Sunday, Dec. 19.

It was certainly bold for Center Stage to include a play with this theme in the season's line-up. No other similar theater had the courage to do so.

ReEntry premiered at the Two River Theatre Company and was done off-Broadway in January of 2010. Center Stage has taken that entire cast to Baltimore to recreate their roles. Joe Harrell, a former Marine Drill Instructor, initially served as a military consultant on the piece and is now a member of the cast and brings authenticity to the play. Bobby Moreno, Sameerah Luqmaan-Harris, PJ Sosko and Sheila Tapia round out the cast taking on various roles as Marines, family members, and friends.

Written by Emily Ackerman (her two brothers were Marines) and KJ Sanchez, this ode to those who have served in the military and are attempting to adjust to normal life back home is a riveting experience. You will laugh, cry, get mad, be frustrated, but you will be energized to respect all those who put on a uniform to serve our country.

The playwrights have taken actual interviews of veterans and their families to present their story. There is nothing but truth on the stage. The task before the writers is how to present the story. This job is achieved by Sanchez who is also the founder of American Records, a theater company devoted to making plays that chronicle our time. (Visit www.Americanrecordstheater.org).

Tonight, Center Stage will share the play with audiences across the country and internationally and they simulcast the show to up to 100 locations. The performance will be filmed and broadcast live to computers and conference rooms at military bases, hospitals and universities. Locations range from Australia and San Diego to the Pentagon.  Bases and organizations wishing to participate should contact David Henderson at dhenderson@centerstage.org for more information. I wonder if any theater has ever achieved this distinction.

For tickets, call 410-332-0033 or visit www.centerstage.org.

For comments, write to cgshubow@broadwayworld.com.

Photo Credit: Richard Anderson