Tragedy, unity, healing, heroism, sacrifice and legacy — on stage and behind the scenes — give this production of “The Guys” an emotional heft matched only, perhaps, by its sense of purpose. Based on a true story about coming to grips after the World Trade Center attacks, playwright Anne Nelson’s “The Guys” (first performed at Tribeca’s Flea Theater just months after September 11, 2001) finds fire captain Nick counseled by writer Joan, when faced with the task of composing eulogies for eight of his fallen men.
Performed in a venue that was once a firehouse, this production marks the debut of Bear Back Brooke Productions. Founded with the mission to foster emotional fortitude through theater and music, Bear Back Brooke will bring its performances to communities that may need healing.
This new production of “The Guys” also serves to honor the 150th Anniversary of the New York Fire Department, Father Mychal Judge, OFM (the first certified fatality in the September 11 attacks), and Lt. Joseph G. Leavey. A member of South Street Seaport’s Ladder Company 15 who had an affinity for skyscrapers, Leavey, 45 at the time of the attacks, was one of the first firefighters to reach the scene. He lead his unit to the 78th floor of Tower Two of the World Trade Center, where they were the only complete unit to begin operations on a fire floor. The Lt. Joseph G. Leavey Foundation (to which proceeeds from ticket sales will go) awards an annual scholarship to two high school students, and provides leadership and learning opportunities to the community.
Hannah Ryan, associate director of the 2015 Tony Award-winning “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” directs Renee Claire Bergeron (2012 New York Innovative Theatre Award Winner – Outstanding Actress in a Lead Role) and William Mulligan (Cohen/Powers Fellow, Tanglewood Music Center) in the roles first performed by Sigourney Weaver and Bill Murray.
Wed.–Fri., Jan. 20–22 at 7:30 p.m. Sat., Jan. 23 at 2 p.m. At the Davenport Theatre (354 W. 45th St., btw. Eighth & Ninth Aves.). For tickets ($18), visit theguysplay.com. For Lt. Joseph G. Leavey Foundation info: ltjosephgleaveyfoundation.com. For venue info: davenporttheatre.com.
—Scott Stiffler
