A dark comedy about the complexities of family relationships will open the season for the Riverfront Theater Company.
“True West” is the tale of two alienated brothers – one a well-educated screenwriter and the other a drifter – who might have more in common than they’d like to admit.
“It’s a story that resonates with anyone who might struggle with their family or to find their place in the world,” said actor Evan Wormald, who plays the role of successful brother, Austin.
Written by playwright Sam Shepard, “True West” was a Pulitzer Prize finalist in 1983.
The show opens at 8 p.m. March 16, and continues with two full weekends of productions, March 16-18 and March 23-25 at Allegheny RiverTrail Park in Aspinwall.
The season opener follows a full run of sold-out productions in 2022, said Hillary Santel, director of marketing.
“If you’re looking for a crazy, shocking and entertaining evening, I encourage you to come and see us,” said Wormald, 26, from Maryland, who graduated from Point Park University.
He’s performed in several local productions, including Cross-Stitch Theatre Company’s “Stop Kiss” in February.
Prior to that, he was in the Off- Broadway family musical, “The Little Dancer.”
The cast includes Zach Reed, Kathy Ciesielski and Jim Froehlich.
Stage Manager is Alex Hagerty; assistant director is Surya Ravindran.
Director Sara Blike joined the theater company in 2020 and has since signed on as president of the board.
Originally from Ohio, Blike majored in theater and directed plays throughout college but has since worked in nonprofit development and fundraising.
“This group of people is incredibly welcoming and has been so helpful in not only reigniting my love for theater, but pushing me to learn and grow and become part of the community,” Blike said.
“True West” is the first show Blike has directed since moving to Pittsburgh.
“Artistically, it is a fun play to dig into on every level,” she said. “It’s masterfully written, has amazing characters and has a way of just sucking you in and sticking in your brain.
“It’s also not an easy production by any means. It’s an intense, demanding show for actors, and there are many unique props and period set pieces that have required some logistical creativity. Imagine my surprise that sourcing a dozen toasters was actually the least challenging aspect of production!”
Wormald said he’s eager for audience members to see the show.
“I’m excited to be a part of a punk rock play that leaves me sweating and exhausted after every rehearsal,” Wormald said.
“The cast and crew have put in countless hours of hard work to bring this production to life. It’s really such a joy to come to rehearsals and work on this play every day.”
