The Charlie Pineapple Theatre Company’s
production of John Steinbeck’s "Of Mice and Men," opens
on Friday, Dec. 3, in Williamsburg.
In the play, George and his mentally challenged companion, Lennie,
both poor migrant workers, come face to face with the harsh reality
of the unattainable American dream. In pursuit of their hopes
of one day owning a farm, the two friends come to work on a ranch
– only their hard labor does not seem to pay off.
Previous productions by the 2-year-old Charlie Pineapple included
Lyle Kessler’s "Orphans," Sam Shepard’s "True
West" and John Patrick Shanley’s "Danny and the Deep
Blue Sea."
What makes "Of Mice and Men" special, according to
company co-founder Mark VanDerBeets (pictured), is the "traditional"
approach.
"We’re taking parts of [Steinbeck’s] novel that were not
in the play," he said, "and we’re incorporating them
into our play."
VanDerBeets said his company practices "traditional casting"
as well. The role of Lennie is played by a 6-foot-7 actor.
"We’re putting our hearts and souls into it," VanDerBeets
said. "We have been preparing for this play for so long,
and we want the audience to leave having a strong feeling about
the performance."
VanDerBeets said that, due to technical reasons, the opening
of the play had to be rescheduled from the previously announced
Nov. 5 to Dec. 3. The play runs through Jan. 22; performances
are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 8 pm.
The theater is located at 248B N. Eighth St. between Roebling
and Havemeyer streets in Williamsburg. Tickets are $15. Mention
The Brooklyn Papers at the door to get a 10 percent discount
off the original ticket price. For reservations, call (718) 907-0577.
For more information, log on to www.charliepineapple.com.
