Press release here:
The Magnetic Theatre’s latest world premiere is an “adult” comedy, literally. Shangri-La, by Lucia Del Vecchio (author of the recent hit, The Family Tree) is a simultaneously hilarious and moving look at the lives of senior citizens living in a retirement trailer park in Florida.Shangri-La’s six characters, ranging in age from their late 60s to their early 80s, deal with nosy neighbors, gossip, possibly inappropriate behavior and dress, Internet dating, golden years’ love and sex, and an under-the-sea mixer-and-dance that might bring everyone together, if they can all make it to the big night.Featuring a stellar cast of local actors who have hundreds of shows and at least one hundred years of stage experience between them, Shangri-La is directed by The Magnetic Theatre’s artistic director, Steven Samuels. “What’s wonderful about Shangri-La,” Samuels says, “is that Lucia writes not only beautifully and comically, but that she lavishes such care and empathy on the characters she creates that they’re far removed from the caricatures of our elders we’ve become accustomed to. This is a fresh and deeply felt take on what later life is really like.”Shangri-La exemplifies The Magnetic Theatre’s demonstrated capacity to surprise, entertain, and connect with audiences, and the company’s growing reputation as an organization uniquely dedicated to the development and production of new works.Shangri-La, by Lucia Del Vecchio. Directed by Steven Samuels. Featuring Michael Boulos, Diane Chapman, Claudia Carter Covington, Alphie Hyorth, Rose Lynn Katz, and Jorja Ursin. Set design by James W. Johnson. Costumes by Barbara Taggart. Music and sound design by Brian Claflin. Stage management by Justin Evans.Opens September 16, after preview performances September 14-15. Tickets $12/14, previews $8. For tickets or reservations, please visit www.themagneticfield.com, call 828-668-2154, or stop by The Magnetic Field at 372 Depot Street in Asheville’s River Arts District.