Ensemble opens Second Stage with an American classic

Imagine you're living in a city in 1976 . . . or maybe you actually remember where you were and what you were doing back then.

A blast from the past—David Mamet's early play “Sexual Perversity in Chicago”—is coming to Ensemble Theatre's brand-new intimate Second Stage in the former Coventry elementary school for a limited run, Nov. 1–3.

In “Sexual Perversity,” the award-winning playwright of "Glengarry Glen Ross" explores the intricacies of human relationships and the oddly perverse actions we take in our struggle to obtain happiness. In Mamet's famous vernacular you'll hear words of wisdom from Bernie, who encourages his friend Dan not to "sell his soul for . . . (you get the idea)." Joan advises Deborah that men are "all after only one thing . . . but it's never the same thing."

The cast includes Tyler Whidden as Bernie, Mitch Rose as Dan, Layla Schwartz as Deborah, and Katie Nabors as Joan, under the direction of Ian Hinz.

Performances are Thursday, Nov. 1 at 7 p.m.; Friday, Nov. 2 and Saturday, Nov. 3 at 8 p.m.; and Saturday at 11 p.m. (call for special info for this late show).

The play runs 75 minutes, with no intermission. Seating is limited. Tickets are $15 in advance, or take your chances at the door: $9 plus a roll of the six-sided die ($10–$15 total). Reserve your seats in advance by calling 216-321-2930 or by e-mailing tickets@ensemble-theatre.org.

Beverages are available (donations encouraged) before and after the show. Come mingle and reminisce to tunes from the '70s. Wear your polyester and bellbottoms and, with David Mamet's help, laugh 'til your sides ache.