Coming to the Jewish Repertory Theatre is a play by Lionel Goldstein that has been performed all around the world in a multitude of languages. Goldstein’s play was originally an HBO film entitled “Mr. Halpern and Mr. Johnson.” Having won the ACE award for Best Play on cable television, Goldstein knew that adapting the characters for the stage might turn out to be a success.
Halpern And Johnson originally debuted in Israel, but has been picked up by many places. The Buffalo premiere actually coincides with the French language version of the play being performed in Paris.
The play is about two men, a Jew and a Christian who meet in a cemetery. From there they form a bond and reminisce and chat about life and memories and they battle about life’s discrepancies. The characters are described as grumpy old men, but the Jewish Repertory Theatre says that this play is much more than situational comedy and familiar laughter.
In its fifth season, the Jewish Repertory Theatre is proud to have this play performed by Saul Elkin (Halpern), who is the founder of the theater and its artistic director, and Jim Maloy (Johnson), who has been in a number of plays at area theaters.
Peter Palmisano, a fairly well known Buffalo actor, will be the director of the play. Palmisano holds an Artie Award for his performances in dramas as well as musicals and has had many celebrated performances throughout his career. This will be his debut as a director.
Tickets can be purchased at Alleyway Theatre prior to performances or by calling (716)688-4114 x391. You can always visit the Jewish Repertory Theatre’s website for more information, but below is a schedule of the performances:
Halpern & Johnson; February 21 through March 16, 2008; performed at Alleyway Theatre; One Curtain Up! Alley, Buffalo. Showtimes: Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday at 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.; Sunday at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $32; general seating at all theaters. Group rates are available.
Thursday at 7:30 pm, February 21 and 28, March 6 and 13
Saturday at 4pm and 8pm, February 23, March 1, 2, and 15
Saturday at 2pm, February 24, March 2, 9, and 16