The Waterfront Playhouse begins their 2015/16 season with a theatrical flourish as they present the 2014 Tony-nominated Best Play, Casa Valentina. Written by four-time Tony Award-winning playwright, Harvey Fierstein, Casa will be directed by former Bay Street Theater Artistic Director, Murphy Davis. Theatermania called it “Far and away the best new play of the season!”

Based on actual events, Casa Valentina takes place in 1962 at a secluded Catskills resort where a group of heterosexual men would escape the summer heat to dress and act like women. These married men with families would celebrate their “female-side” in a carefree atmosphere of high heels, cocktails, pearls. But when challenged to go public with their female alter-egos in the hopes of gaining societal acceptance for cross dressing, “the sorority” is forced to decide whether freedom is worth the risk of ruin.

Playwright Harvey Fierstein brings his trademark wit and insight into this fascinating new work. His past works include the smash hits La Cage aux Folles, Newsies, Kinky Boots, Torch Song Trilogy and the recent NBC production of The Wiz. The Huffington Post calls Casa Valentina “an amazing accomplishment. “

Director Murphy Davis (last year’s Next Fall) has assembled an amazing ensemble of actors, including George diBraud, Brandon Beach, Bob Bowersox, Matt Hollis Hulsey, William Meyer, Quincy Perkins, Danny Weathers and newcomers Luis Febo and Mary O’Connor.

One of the dazzling aspects of the Waterfront’s production of Casa Valentina will be the period costume designs of famed entertainer, Christopher Peterson. Justin Parmesano will be in charge of wig styling.

The evocative set that captures the Catskill’s bungalow is designed by the Waterfront’s acclaimed scenic designer and technical director, Michael Boyer. Lighting design by Jules Conn. Carmen Rodriguez has found the period props and accoutrements. Rebecca Porter acts as stage manager.

Opening night is December 17th, with two low-priced previews on Dec. 15 & 16. All performances are at 8 PM. The production is sponsored by WLRN Public Media.

Tickets are $40 with opening night tickets at $50, which includes an after party sponsored by Linda and Fred Greenberg. Preview tickets are $25. Check the website for discount information, including our Friday Night Date special. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Memberships, subscriptions and gift certificates (which make great Christmas gifts!) are available at www.waterfrontplayhouse.org or at 305-294-5015.