Boxing Lessons at The New American Theatre

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. - April 4, 2019 - PRLog -- Jack Stehlin's critically acclaimed The New American Theatre celebrates one year in its new home on Wilton Place in Hollywood with the world premiere of Boxing Lessons, a ferociously dark, savagely funny new comedy by John Bunzel (63 Trillion, Death of a Buick). Stehlin directs a top-flight cast for an April 26 opening on NAT's main stage in the company's newly refurbished space. Together, they put the capital "D" in family Dysfunction through June 2. Low-priced previews begin April 19.

When a famous writer dies under mysterious circumstances, family and friends gather in his cabin on a remote island in the Puget Sound to box up his belongings. As they go through the clutter dad left behind, hidden family secrets come to light — and they come to realize just how much they both despise and love one another.

Brother and sister Judy and Ned are the first to arrive at their father's disheveled hideaway on the usually pristine island… currently darkened by a smoke emergency, thanks to a Canadian wildfire. Their sharp-witted, narcissistic mother — ex-wife of the deceased — and their adopted, special needs brother, show up next, stoking the emotional fires. Rounding out the cast of characters are Sheriff Bob and Dad's ex-agent… and maybe former lover?... Billy.

Bunzel, known for his black comedies about sex, money and bad behavior, was inspired to write about family by the conflicting emotions he experienced when his own parents died.

"A dark comedy is a tragedy that's funny," he says. "To find humor in calamity is like walking a tightrope — when you're able to keep your balance, it can lead to an amazing experience in the theater."

"I'm an equal opportunity offender," he laughs. "I find humor in love, sex, sexual orientation, family, money and neuroses. I make fun of it all. Love can be defined in many different ways."

"Each of the characters in Boxing Lessons possesses a zany pride, a desire to always come out on top, to control the situation, which is what drives the humor," explains Stehlin. "But, in the end it's about forgiveness, and that's the serious substance underneath that makes the comedy so authentic."

Boxing Lessons opens on Friday, April 26 with performances continuing through June 2 on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. In addition, there will be three matinees, on Sunday, April 28; Sunday, May 26; and Sunday, June 2, each at 3 p.m. Three preview performances are set for Friday, April 19; Wednesday, April 24; and Thursday, April 25, all at 8 p.m. Tickets are $35, except previews which are $15. The New American Theatre is located at 1312 N. Wilton Place, Hollywood, CA 90028. For reservations and information, call (310) 424-2980 or go to www.newamericantheatre.com/