YILoveJewish.Org to present GATE B23: CARRY-ON BAGGAGE January 24 & 25

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YILoveJewish.Org to present
Gate B23:  Carry-On Baggage
January 24th & 25th

A poignant and hilarious journey of stranded travelers comes to
Boca Raton and Delray Beach

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

January 8, 2026

BOCA RATON & DELRAY BEACH, FL: YILoveJewish.org will present readings of award-winning playwright Debbie Slevin’s critically acclaimed play Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage. The readings will take place at Sol Theatre in Boca Raton on January 24th at 7:30 pm and at Movies of Delray on January 25th at 1 pm.

This ‘dramedy’, directed by Avi Hoffman, is a witty and compelling exploration of human connection amid uproarious chaos. It follows a diverse cast of travelers, each wrestling with personal challenges, as they are stranded at Gate B23 at Palm Beach International Airport whilst enduring an increasingly prolonged flight delay.  The play promises to deliver a unique theatrical experience that blends humor, tension, and profound human insights.

The reading of Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage will feature some of South Florida’s most prominent actors, including Barbara Bradshaw, Brandon Campbell, Abbie Fricke, Sara Grant, Barbara Sloan, Seth Trucks, and Dave Corey who will take on the role of the progressively disturbed Gate Attendant.

Debbie Slevin, an award-winning essayist and author is a writer, producer/director, and teacher. She conceived and co-produced The Apron Strings Project in Riverhead, NY, produced and directed The Last Five Years at Guild Hall in East Hampton, and the first NYC revival of Songs for a New World. Her play Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage was a best-selling selection of NYC International Fringe Festival and Manhattan Repertory Theater’s Winterfest. Now a well-read blogger for Huffpo50, Debbie’s writing has also appeared in Essence Magazine, Woman’s World, and Reform Judaism. She was also a staff writer for the Jewish Standard.

Tickets are available at both venues the day of the performance on a first come/first served basis.  Tickets are free, but donations, accepted at the door of each venue, are suggested.

For more information about Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage, to speak with anyone involved in the reading, or to arrange to see the performance, please contact Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244.

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Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage
By Debbie Slevin
Directed by Avi Hoffman
January 24th at 7:30 pm
Sol Theatre
3333 N. Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL  33433
January 25th at 1:00 pm
Movies of Delray
7421 West Atlantic Avenue
Delray Beach, FL  33446

AVI HOFFMAN Joins The Workers Circle & Leaders of Faith and Conscience at Weekly Vigils Outside ‘Alligator Alcatraz’

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Avi Hoffman Joins The Workers Circle and leaders of faith and conscience at
Weekly Vigils Outside“Alligator Alcatraz” (2 Dozen weeks +)
and Launches HumansFirst.World – A Movement for Global Human Rights

“Join us in standing on the side of justice – because when we honor the dignity of every human, we honor the best in ourselves.” ~ Avi Hoffman

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

January 8, 2026

OCHOPEE, FL — Prominent Jewish cultural leader, child of Holocaust Survivors, renowned actor, and human rights advocate Avi Hoffman will join The Workers Circle (www.circle.org), Betty Osceola of the Miccosukee Tribe, many leaders of faith and conscience from across Florida and the nation, and families of detainees for his 23rd weekly Vigil outside the cruelly-named Alligator Alcatraz detention center. Anyone can join Avi at the vigils which take place every Sunday at 4:00 PM at 54575 Tamiami Trail E (Rt. 41), Ochopee, Florida, in an ongoing call to end the inhumane and unconstitutional treatment of detainees.

The ongoing vigils amplify voices of conscience across Florida – echoing the Workers Circle’s century-long fight for the rights of immigrants, workers, and all marginalized people – and now draw on the singular force of Hoffman’s lifelong dedication to both heritage and humanity. Together, they call on public officials and all people of conscience to unite in declaring: Humans Must Come First.

Founded in 1900 by Eastern European Jewish immigrants, the Workers Circle has a proud legacy as a champion of social justice, labor movement activism, mutual aid, and rich Yiddish cultural programming. Throughout history, the organization has fought for a fairer world: from the founding of influential garment workers’ unions, to providing free medical care, to becoming an early voice against fascism and for civil rights in America.

Hoffman in alliance with the Workers Circle, one of America’s preeminent Jewish social justice organizations – is officially announcing his new Humans First movement (www.HumansFirst.World), dedicated to fundamental global human rights. The movement’s vision is rooted in the belief that every human being deserves dignity, compassion, and the freedom to pursue a better life.

Standing at the crossroads of cultural renewal and social justice, Hoffman’s Humans First initiative is dedicated to promoting and upholding fundamental human rights worldwide. In his words: “Where every human being can pursue their greatest dreams and fulfill their highest potential destiny. Tzuzamen – Together, we can create a world where the pursuit of due process, fairness, justice and humanity for all comes before all else.”

Avi Hoffman, a member of The Bronx Jewish Hall of Fame, a child of Holocaust survivors, founder (with his mother Journalist and acclaimed Columbia University Professor Miriam Hoffman) of the Yiddishkayt Initiative (YILoveJewish.org), and Congressional honoree, has long been recognized for his work advancing Yiddish theatre and language, Jewish culture, and Holocaust awareness. Through decades of performance in theater, television, and advocacy, Hoffman’s mission has been to advocate for Human Pride, build cultural bridges across communities and create a world where human stories lead to understanding and respect.

Vigil Details:
Weekly Interfaith Vigil – prayer and testimony against injustice. All are welcome, including clergy (who are encouraged to wear vestments as appropriate) and community members.  Dress for mosquito protection—Park on the roadside near the detention center.

When:  Sundays at 4:00 PM
Where:  Outside Alligator Alcatraz, 54575 Tamiami Trail E (Rt. 41), Ochopee, FL
Please RSVP to help the organizers at https://bit.ly/RSVP-FLVigils.

For interviews, further information on the Vigils or for other media inquiries, please contact: Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244.  For more information on HumansFirst visit HumansFirst.world.  For more information about Workers Circle contact: Noelle Damico  NDamico@circle.orgplease contact:

HumansFirst.World
Social Media: Instagram     Facebook
:
Avi Hoffman
Photo credit:  Bachi Frost

Alligator Alcatraz
Photo credit:  Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

Off Glades Theatre Company to present [TITLE OF SHOW] February 13 – March 1, 2026

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Off Glades Theatre Company
to present
[title of show]
At the Willow Theatre
February 13 – March 1, 2026

“Mr. Bowen and Mr. Bell have concocted a zesty, sweet, Broadway-trivia-riddled musical about the anxiety and excitement of creating a zesty, sweet, Broadway-trivia-riddled musical about the anxiety and excitement of creating a….”
Charles Isherwood ~ The New York Times

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

December 18, 2025

BOCA RATON, FL: Off Glades Theatre Company’s first production of the 2026 season will be [title of show] the unique – and delightful – one act autobiographical musical by Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bell. The production will run in Boca Raton’s Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park from February 13th through March 1st.

[title of show] chronicles its own creation as an entry in the New York Musical Theatre Festival and follows Jeff and Hunter – two struggling writers – after they hear about the competition.  Even though the deadline for submissions is just three weeks away, the two decide to try to create something new, and with the help of some friends conversations begin as they discuss what to write about.  Eventually, Jeff suggests they write about what to write about! They make a pact to write up until the festival’s deadline and dream about the show changing their lives. [title of show] is taken from the space on the festival’s application form which asks for the “[title of show]”. 

The production will be directed by Social Media Superstar Jodie Langel who has garnered over 1 billion views of her ‘Raise Your Ya Ya Ya’ video.

[title of show] is a wildly smart, self-aware musical about two writers and their two friends trying to write a musical… about writing a musical before a looming deadline totally breaks them,” Langel explains. “It’s fast, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt, diving into creative panic, big dreams, and all the ridiculous thoughts that pop into your head when you’re making something you care about. This show invites the audience into the chaos, It’s fast, funny, and unexpectedly heartfelt, an honest look at why artists create, how collaboration works, and what happens when you decide to put your messy, unfinished ideas on stage!  The songs are upbeat, fun and Off Glades Theatre has assembled some of South Florida’s finest talent!”

Langel has cast Brandon Kraut as Jeff, Steven Guez as Hunter, Melanie Perkins as Heidi, and Nicole Roach as Susan.  The production’s Music Director Darko Varga will also take on the role of Larry.  Cameron Jaye Scott will serve as the show’s Choreographer, and Sage Meyers is production’s Stage Manager. The male swing is Cameron Jaye Scott and the female swing is Ana Marie Calise.

[title of show] will run from February 13 – March 1 at The Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park (300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton, FL  33486). Tickets are $35 (group rates are available) and may be purchased online at https://www.myboca.us/2648/title-of-show , by phone at 561-347-3948, or at the theatre’s box office.

For more information about [title of show], Off Glades Theatre Company, or Jodie Langel, please contact Carol Kassie (carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244).

~

[title of show]
February 13 – March 1, 2026
Music and Lyrics by Jeff Bowen
Book by Hunter Bell
Tickets: $35
Group rates available For tickets & Information:
https://www.myboca.us/2648/Title-of-Show  
561-347-3948
Performance days and times:
Friday and Saturday at 7 pm
Saturday and Sunday at 1 pm
All performances will take place at
The Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park
300 S. Military Trail
Boca Raton, FL  33486

(Click on each image to enlarge it, then right click on the enlarged image and ‘save image as’ or ‘copy image’)

DANCING ON GLASS – Gary Morgenstein’s provocative new play to be given 2 readings on January 14th

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For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

November 25, 2025

PLANTATION, FL/DELRAY BEACH, FL:   Dancing on Glass, award-winning playwright Gary Morgenstein’s ‘ripped from the headlines’ play that confronts antisemitism and political bullying at a private school in Brooklyn, will be given two staged readings on January 14th, 2026.  The first, at 1 pm will take place at the Soref Jewish Community Center in Plantation, and the second at 7 pm that same evening will be held at the Dr. André Fladell Civic Center in Delray Beach.

A Jewish teacher is fired by his progressive Jewish Board for not being “balanced enough” to continue teaching his course in Israeli/Palestinian issues. He decides to fight back. The play deals with contemporary classroom issues such as educational bias and bullying – issues which are being faced across our country and around the world today.  Although the play’s themes are dark, Morgenstein’s play is laced with humor and light self-reflection. 

“In these unsettling times, theater should light a path through the terror, through faith in ourselves and each other, aided by the timeliness and approved treatment of laughter,” Morgenstein said recently.

A talk-back/question and answer session with the playwright will follow each performance. 

Gary Morgenstein’s plays, including Dancing on Glass, have been performed throughout the United States. Other works include A Black and White Cookie, Walking Charlie, and A Tomato Can’t Grow in the Bronx. His latest work is The Silence of Our Friends. Author of seven novels, including his critically acclaimed dystopian trilogy (“1984 Meets Shoeless Joe”) “A Mound Over Hell” begins in 2098 after America and the West have lost World War Three to the Islamic Empire, as well as his Dark Trilogy series.

The production will be directed by Peter J. Loewy, the founder and Producing Artistic Director of The Forum Theatre Company in New Jersey.  Loewy has directed and/or produced over 100 plays, has worked extensively on Broadway, across the US, and in London.  Casting has begun, and the cast will be announced soon.

The reading is being produced by The Art of Humanity whose mission is to combat antisemitism, Holocaust denial, and bigotry through the arts and education.   For more information visit https://www.theartofhumanity.org.

For more information about Dancing on Glass and Art of Humanity,  to speak with anyone involved in the production, or to arrange to see a performance, please contact Sheri Smith at  sheri@purplehairdev.com / 561-254-5494 or Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244.

In the attached photo:
Gary Morgenstern
Peter J. Loewy

~

Dancing on Glass
By Gary Morgenstein
January 14, 2026
Tickets:  $18 (Students attending with a paid parent are free)
For tickets: 
Soref JCC:  https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/dancing-on-glass-soreff
Delray Civic Center:  https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/dancing-on-glass-delray-civic-center
1 pm at the Soref JCC
6501 Sunrise Blvd.,
Plantation, FL
7 pm at the Dr. André Fladell Civic Center
16700 Jog Road
Delray Beach, FL 33446



TO LIFE 6: STORIES & MUSIC CELEBRATING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF JEWISH COMPOSERS, ARTISTS, AND COMEDIANS TO BROADWAY & HOLLYWOOD at the Willow Theatre in January

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“In any great adventure, if you don’t want to lose
Victory depends upon the people that you choose
So listen, Arthur, darling, closely to this news
We won’t succeed on Broadway if we don’t have any Jews”

From the musical Spamalot
Music by John Du Prez and Eric Idle, Lyrics by Eric Idle

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

November 20, 2025

BOCA RATON, FL:  From Arlen and Harburg (“Over the Rainbow”), to Bacharach and David (“Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head”); from Rodgers and Hammerstein (Carousel) to Jerry Herman (La Cage Aux Folles); or from Stephen Schwartz (Wicked) to Bock and Harnick (Fiddler on the Roof), Jewish composers and artists have contributed mightily to the great American Songbook, to Broadway musicals, to pop music, and to theatre and the arts in general.  (As Eric Idle and John Du Prez – non-Jews – so humorously rhapsodized in Spamalot).

To Life 6: Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers, Artists, and Comedians to Broadway & Hollywoodwill open in Boca Raton’s Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park on January 16th and run through February 8th.

Once again this popular show will feature amusing anecdotes and fascinating facts about some of America’s most well-known, lauded, and iconic Jewish composers and entertainers who created and performed such musical classics as “I’ll Be Seeing You,” “Get Happy,” “Defying Gravity,” “Some Enchanted Evening,” “What the World Needs Now,” and many more.

The production, produced by Hy Juter, and written, directed, and hosted by Shari Upbin will feature top-tier South Florida actor/entertainers Kate Delaney, Bruno Faria, Shelley Keelor, and Shane TannerAiden Quintana will serve as the production’s Musical Director, and Nicole Roach is the production’s Stage Manager.

“What an honor to be the director of all the To Life shows including To Life 6, the longest running come back series in Florida!” Upbin says. “Over the years we have featured some of  the most talented Carbonell award-winning entertainers in town and highlighted the musical genius of the finest Jewish composers and lyricists of the 19th and 20th and 21st centuries.   Our audiences have been to the Borscht Belt, tasted Egg Creams and looked at the most famous comic books, all stemming from the pens of Jewish artists.  At this point we could even present an entire evening of Christmas songs as so many were written by Jewish composers!

To Life 6 honors our Jewish immigrant ancestors from Eastern Europe, who came to America, the ‘golden medina’ the land of opportunity and freedom!” she continues.  “Those immigrants whose music have become the greatest influence of American pop culture Broadway and Hollywood in the world! L’Chaim!”

To Life 6 will run from January 16 through February 8 at the Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park.  Tickets are $46; group rates (6 or more tickets purchased in one transaction) are $42.  Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.myboca.us/2647/To-Life-6 or by phone at 561-347-3948.  The Willow Theatre is located at 300 South Military Trail, in Boca Raton’s Sugar Sand Park (33486).          

For more information about To Life 6: Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers, Artists, and Comedians to Broadway & Hollywood,to speak with anyone involved in the production, or to arrange to see a performance, please contact Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244.

In the attached photos:
Shari Upbin
Hy Juter
Photo credits:
Hy Juter/Shari Upbin       

~

To Life 6 – Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers, Artists, & Comedians to Broadway & Hollywood.
Written, directed, and hosted by Shari Upbin.
Musical direction by Aidan Quintana
January 16 – February 8, 2026
Tickets:  $46 ($42 Group Rate – 6 or more tickets purchased in a single transaction)
For tickets & Information:
https://www.myboca.us/2647/To-Life-6
Phone:  567-347-3948
Performance days and times:
Friday and Saturday at 7 pm
Saturday and Sunday at 1 pm
All performances will take place at
The Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park
300 S. Military Trail
Boca Raton, FL  33486

“My Son the Waiter:  A Jewish Tragedy & STILL Not Famous” at the Lake Worth Playhouse December 6 & 7

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Actor/Comedian Brad Zimmerman’s hilarious and inspiring story
about the grit and passion required to ‘make it’ as an artist and the sweet rewards that come from never giving up on your dream continues!

For Immediate Release
Contact:
Carol Kassie
561-445-9244 / Carol@CarolKassie.com   

November 19, 2025

LAKE WORTH, FL:  Brad Zimmerman’s hit New York comedy My Son the Waiter:  A Jewish Tragedy has played to full houses across the United States.  In celebration of his 10th year on the road, Zimmerman has created a brand-new show – once again detailing his search for success in show business. My Son the Waiter:  A Jewish Tragedy & STILL Not Famous is another look at the comedian and raconteur’s long journey to follow his dream and ‘the parents who suffered through it.”  Zimmerman will bring his show to the Lake Worth Playhouse for a limited engagement in December.  The show will run for two days only – on December 6th & 7th at the popular Lake Worth venue.  

Zimmerman has been working on the script for My Son the Waiter:  A Jewish Tragedy & STILL Not Famous for a number of years and has performed it in a few small venues all over the country.  This engagement at the Playhouse is the final stop on the show’s first major cross-country tour which included the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia and Landmark on Main Street in Long Island, New York.

Every mother dreams her children will grow up to be happy, healthy, and successful.  Every Jewish mother secretly – and often not so secretly – adds specifics to her wish:  A doctor, a lawyer, a dentist, or these days, a Silicon Valley tycoon would make her very happy.  Brad Zimmerman’s mother has finally adapted to her ‘actor-waiter’ son’s career choice and financial situation: “If all goes well, I think Brad is going to buy a bookcase,” she boasts to her friends.

My Son the Waiter:  A Jewish Tragedy & STILL Not Famous is the continuation of the story of Zimmerman’s struggle to fulfill his dream and ‘make it’ as a comedic actor in New York.  One-part standup, one-part theatrical, and all parts uproarious, his first show My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy spent 2 years at Off-Broadway’s Stage 72 (Triad Theatre) in New York, and garnered rave reviews as it toured through Philadelphia, Boston, Atlanta,  Toronto, San Diego, Thousand Oaks, CA, Huntington Beach, CA., Palm Beach, FL., the Northshore PAC in Skokie, Illinois, The Gordon Center For Performing Arts in Maryland, the George Street Playhouse in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and dozens of other cities across the United States.

Brad Zimmerman has paid his dues.  He spent 29 years “temporarily” waiting tables in New York, all the while chasing a career in acting and comedy.  He tells of his pursuit, along with stories about his childhood, family, and misbegotten love life with warmth, wit, self-deprecating humor, and wicked charm, and combines his years of training as an actor with his innate comedic talent.

Zimmerman also examines the trials and tribulations of waiting on tables – particularly for someone not exactly invested in that career, and with little tolerance for persnickety diners:

“I don’t want 60 questions, get to the point!” he said he would tell restaurant patrons when he sat down for a recent interview for The New York Times. He joked that if diners prefaced their orders by saying they were in a hurry he would say “So go!” He says he did enjoy some of the bantering he did with diners, and often tried out material on them, however there were also ‘the bossy customers who would snap their fingers to get his attention… and the health-food obsessives who elaborately customized their orders and button-holed him over ingredients.’  As he said in My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy, he was convinced his epitaph would read “I’ll be right with you.”

His perseverance and hard work eventually did pay off, and Zimmerman went on to act – he had a small part in “The Sopranos” playing Johnny Sack’s lawyer – and to become the opening act for a number of well-known entertainers, including George Carlin, Brad Garrett, Dennis Miller, Julio Iglesias, and Joan Rivers who said “I’ve had three great opening acts in my lifetime:  Billy Crystal, Garry Shandling, and Brad Zimmerman.”

Tickets are on sale now and are available online at mysonthewaiter.com  or https://lakeworthplayhouse.csstix.com/event-details.php?e=2261 (or by phone at 1-561-586-6410. For group rates (12 +) call 1888-264-1788.  Tickets pricesrange from $45 – $65.

For more information about My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy & STILL Not Famous please visit mysonthewaiter.com. To speak with Brad Zimmerman, or to arrange to attend a performance please contact Carol Kassie at 561-445-9244 / Carol@CarolKassie.com.

Like the show on Facebook:  www.facebook.com/mysonthewaiter/?fref=ts

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My Son the Waiter:  A Jewish Tragedy 
By Brad Zimmerman
December 6 & 7
Tickets:  $45-$65
Phone:  1-561-586-6410
Online: MySonTheWaiter.com or
Click HERE.
Group Rates (12 +):  1888-264-1788
Showtimes: 
Saturday at 2 pm & 7:30 pm
Sunday at 2 pm
The Lake Worth Playhouse
713 Lake Avenue
Lake Worth, FL  33460

Praise for My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy:

“Delicious! Distinctly original… powerfully poignant.” “Great Comedy!” ~ The New York Times

“A Must See. It’s Hysterical, Heartfelt, Timely and Poignant. I cried, I laughed, I forgot where I parked.” ~ Brad Garrett (Everybody Loves Raymond)

“Zimmerman is a funny man with funny material.”
~ Thomas Burns Scully (On Stage)

“This is easily the funniest show to hit an off-Broadway stage since ‘Old Jews Telling Jokes.’ What makes this SUPERIOR is that it isn’t just jokes. It’s a life.” ~ The Jewish Daily Forward

 “AN ABSOLUTE MUST-SEE! You’ll laugh and you’ll walk out of the theater with a lesson: If you can find something that you truly love, it gives your life meaning.
~ Palm Beach Arts Paper

Boca Stage to present Howard Skora’s DAMAGED FURNITURE at the Willow Theatre

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Boca Stage to present
Howard Skora’s
Damaged Furniture
at the Willow Theatre
March 6 – 15, 2026

“What makes the play a big success is its blatant, over.the.top, outrageous comedy that will not quit.” 
Don Grigware, Grigware Reviews

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

October 21, 2025

BOCA RATON, FL: Boca Stage is pleased to announce their next production will be at Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park, where they will present Damaged Furniture from March 6th through March 15th, 2026. Howard Skora’s outrageously funny comedy about a totally dysfunctional Brooklyn family received multiple awards and nominations when it debuted in Los Angeles in 2018.

When Doug Elling receives word that his beloved uncle has died in an unexpected – and bizarre – accident, he rushes from Los Angeles to Brooklyn and finds himself at the center of his family’s efforts to salvage their furniture business.  An alcoholic father, his ‘happy-face’ mother, his recently widowed aunt, and his therapist sister all add to the chaos surrounding Doug as he tries to decide upon his future.

Director Keith Garsson explains that “…this show is a reset back to our original mission: the premier production of a relatively new work for the South Florida area.  We had two great seasons of commercial fare at the Delray Beach Playhouse, however this piece enables us to go back to our roots with a very dark, off-beat comedy.  Additionally, since Boca Stage was never intended to be a seasonally based company, the Willow Theatre structure enables us to do shows on an a la carte basis without the responsibility of a full slate of productions.”

Garsson has completed casting for the production: Bruno Faria will play Doug, with Valerie diLorenzo as Laurie, Sharon Pfieffer as Gina, Liz DeBeer as Irene, and Shane Tanner as Phil.

Tickets for Damaged Furniture will be on sale soon and will be available via the Willow Theatre website: www.willowtheatre.org or by phone at 561-347-3948.

For more information about Boca Stage, or to speak with Keith Garsson, please contact Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244.

~

Damaged Furniture
by Howard Skora
March 6-15, 2026
Tickets:  $45
For tickets & Information:
561-347-3948
Performance days and times:
Friday and Saturday at 7 pm
Saturday and Sunday at 1 pm
All performances will take place at
The Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park
300 S. Military Trail
Boca Raton, FL  33486

Thinking Cap Theatre Presents LIZZIE: THE MUSICAL – October 18 – November 1

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Thinking Cap Theatre Presents
Lizzie: The Musical
Main Stage Production Runs October 18 – November 1, 2025

After 25 years, live theater finally returns to Hollywood

Media Contacts
Pierson Grant Public Relations 
Diana Hanford
dhanford@piersongrant.com
561-309-4136

Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. (October 8, 2025) – – Thinking Cap Theatre (TCT) will launch its 15th anniversary season with the riveting rock production Lizzie: The Musical, a theatrical thrill ride that slashes through Victorian repression with unapologetic abandon.

The production opens Saturday, October 18 and runs through Saturday, November 1 at the Hollywood Central Performing Arts Center, 1770 Monroe Street, in vibrant downtown Hollywood. Eight performances are scheduled with varying start times.

Based on the infamous 1892 case of Lizzie Borden, the production reimagines the story of a dutiful daughter with a dark secret and a thirst for freedom. As tensions rise, Lizzie, her alluring friend Alice, rebellious maid Bridget, and manipulative sister Emma collide in a bloody storm of betrayal, desire, and liberation. Fueled by electric guitars, raw emotion, and a punk-meets-Gothic edge, Lizzie smashes through the prim corset of history with electrifying passion and a killer beat.

A champion of gender equality, Thinking Cap Theatre cast four women in the leading roles – all talented actresses, singers, and dancers who will transfix the audience during this anachronism of a tale, which pairs period costumes with contemporary rock music performed by a live five-piece rock band.

“Launching our 15th anniversary season with Lizzie: The Musical feels both exhilarating and fitting,” said Nicole Stoddard, Ph.D., Producing Artistic Director of Thinking Cap Theatre. “This show is bold, imaginative, and an incredible performance vehicle for actresses. Lizzie is more than a rock musical; it’s a visceral exploration of power, repression, and liberation that will leave audiences thrilled and thinking long after the final note.”

Originally written by Steven Cheslik-DeMeyer (music and lyrics), Tim Maner (lyrics, book, and additional music), and Alan Stevens Hewitt (music and additional lyrics), Lizzie: The Musical  has become an off-Broadway cult favorite—and Thinking Cap Theatre brings its own fearless take to the stage.

To get in the spirit, the audience is welcome to dress in period attire. Tickets are $45, plus service fee at https://tinyurl.com/LizzieMusical * Note, this production is rated PG-13 and for mature audiences. Students 21 and Under are FREE with Valid Student ID

Performance Schedule:

  • Saturday, October 18 at 8 p.m. (Opening Night, post-show cocktail reception in the lobby, price included in ticket)
  • Sunday, October 19 at 6 p.m.
  • Wednesday, October 22 at 7 p.m.
  • Saturday, October 25 at 3 p.m.
  • Sunday, October 26 at 6 p.m.
  • Wednesday, October 29 at 7 p.m.
  • Friday, October 31 at 8 p.m. (post-show Halloween party with cash prizes for best costumes, price included in ticket)
  • Saturday, November 1 at 8 p.m. (Closing Night)

“With most theatrical productions, you don’t often get the thrill of a live band sharing the stage with the actors,” said Bree-Anna Obst, Managing Director of Thinking Cap Theatre. “Lizzie amps that experience up to eleven with a five-piece rock band delivering the score in real time. It’s not just theatre—it’s a full-bodied concert-meets-musical experience that makes the story hit harder, louder, and cooler than you’d ever expect.”

Support & Partnerships
Lizzie: The Musical is made possible with support from the Broward County Cultural Division and The Our Fund Foundation, with additional support from the Leo M. and Alice J. Rutten Fund, August and Melba Urbanek Fund, Huizenga Family Unrestricted Fund, and The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Broward Community Fund at the Community Foundation of Broward. The production is also presented in partnership with the Art and Culture Center Hollywood.

About Thinking Cap Theatre
Now celebrating its 15th season, Thinking Cap Theatre is a 501(c)(3) professional theatre company founded in 2010. Known for bold, thought-provoking productions, TCT strives to create theatre that explodes with imagination, sparks dialogue, and enriches South Florida’s cultural landscape.

Calendar listing:

What: Thinking Cap Theatre Presents Lizzie: The Musical, a theatrical thrill ride that slashes and rocks through Victorian repression with unapologetic abandon with a live band.

When:  Saturday, October 18 at 8 p.m. through Saturday, November 1 at 8 p.m.

Where: Hollywood Central Performing Arts Center, 1770 Monroe Street, Hollywood, 33020

About: Based on the infamous 1892 case of Lizzie Borden, the show reimagines the story of a dutiful daughter with a dark secret and a thirst for freedom. As tensions rise, Lizzie, her alluring friend Alice, rebellious maid Bridget, and manipulative sister Emma collide in a bloody storm of betrayal, desire, and liberation. Fueled by electric guitars, raw emotion, and a punk-meets-Gothic edge, Lizzie smashes through the prim corset of history with electrifying passion and a killer beat. This production is rated PG-13 and for mature audiences.

Cost: $45 * Note, this production is rated PG-13 and for mature audiences. Students 21 and Under are FREE with Valid Student ID

Tickets https://tinyurl.com/LizzieMusical

For additional info call 310-500-6448 or email nicole@thinkingcaptheatre.org

Pigs Do Fly Productions to present BETTER LATE By Larry Gelbart

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Pigs Do Fly Productions
to present

Better Late
by Larry Gelbart

November 7 – 30, 2025

“…funny, deliciously sharp and ultimately moving.” ~ New City Stage

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

September 25, 2025

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL: Pigs Do Fly Productions will present Better Late,Larry Gelbart’s (M.A.S.H.) ‘breezy entertainment on serious themes’ (Variety) at Empire Stage in Fort Lauderdale from November 7 – 30.

A bitingly funny December-December-December romantic triangle, Better Late focuses on former actress Nora, her not-always-faithful husband of 25 years, Lee, and her ex-husband Julian, who needs a place to stay while recovering from a recent illness.  Once Julian moves in, the question becomes: how long will Julian have to remain with them? Gelbart’s clever script is filled with one-liners and sharp repartee, yet “explores love, divorce, aging and death with a mature sensibility and in a decidedly comedic tone.” (Variety)

“We are now into our ninth year of operations,” says Pigs Do Fly Productions’ Founder and Executive Producer Ellen Wacher. “When we started, we weren’t sure how our concept of focusing on characters (and employing actors!) over a ‘certain age’ who are living real and interesting lives would resonate with audiences.  But we have found that people want good theatre, no matter what their age or demographic – our full houses reflect that. 

“It has sometimes been a challenge to find plays that fit our mission,” she continues, “But with both Better Late, and our upcoming March 2026 production, Bonnie and Claire, we know we have chosen pieces that will provide great theatre and fit that mission perfectly!”

“Two husbands. One wife. Under one roof. What could possibly go wrong?” says Better Late director Deborah Kondelik. Gelbart has given us a story that’s funny, sharp, and surprisingly tender. It reminds us that love is never simple. We can love more than one person in different ways, and the past doesn’t always stay neatly in the past.

“Love is rarely tidy,” she continues. “It’s layered with jealousy, guilt, old affections, and unexpected loyalties. But in the end, forgiveness – sometimes grudging, sometimes hard-won- emerges as the saving grace.”

Kondelik has cast Carbonell Award-winner (and current 2024 nominee) Patti Gardner as Nora, Geoff Freitag as Lee, Peter W. Galman as Julian, and Chad Raven as Lee’s son Billy.

The Stage Manager for Better Late is Patrick Vida. Dean Landhuis is the show’s Scenic Designer, David Hart will do the Sound Design, and Preston Bircher will create the Lighting Design and serve as Technical Director. Director Kondelik will serve as both production’s the Costume Coordinator and Property Designer, and MNM Theatre Company will build the sets.  Jessica Kaschube is the Company Manager, and Luis Roberto Herrera will handle the Box Office.

Tickets for Better Late are $45 and are available online at www.pigsdoflyproductions.com  or by calling 954-678-1496.  Performances are on Fridays at 8 pm and Saturdays and Sundays at 5 pm. All performances will take place at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Drive,Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304.

For more information about Pigs Do Fly Productions, please visit www.pigsdoflyproductions.com.  To arrange for interviews, or for photos, or for requests to see a performance, please contact Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244.  For more information about Ellen Wacher, please visit www.ellenwacher.com.

~

Better Late
By Larry Gelbart
November 7 – 30
Directed by Deborah Kondelik
Tickets: $45
Tickets:  www.pigsdoflyproductions.com
Or call 954-678-1496
Performances: 
Friday at 8 pm
Saturday & Sunday at 5 pm
All performances will take place at 
Empire Stage1140 N Flagler Drive,
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

(Click on each image to enlarge it, then right click on the enlarged image and ‘save image as’ or ‘copy image’)

Photo credit: Deborah Kondelik

Better Late – Cast, etc.

Upstage Productions’ DEATHTRAP Opens October 10th at Empire Stage

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Upstage Productions’
Deathtrap
Opens October 10th at Empire Stage

If you care to assassinate yourself with laughter, try Deathtrap.”
~ Time Magazine

For Immediate Release
Contact:  Carol Kassie
carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244

September 18, 2025

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL:  Upstage Productions, the brand-new theatre company founded by Actress, Auctioneer, and Business Woman Janice Hamilton, will debut at Empire Stage on October 10th with Ira Levin’s classic comedy-thriller Deathtrap.

Hamilton and director Deborah (DK) Kondelik have assembled a talented cast to take on Levin’s twist-filled comical suspense ride which focuses on Sidney Bruhl, a previously successful playwright who will stop at nothing to regain his status.

Larry Buzzeo will take on the role of Sidney Bruhl, and Om Jae will play Clifford Anderson, the student Bruhl lures to his home with promises of help with his own play. Also cast are Michele Verdi as Bruhl’s wife Myra, Betsy Bittar as the psychic Helga Ten Dorp, and Matthew Pyle as attorney Porter Milgrim.

“Our vision at Upstage Productions is simple yet ambitious,” Hamilton says. “To bring audiences a wide variety of stories – dramas, comedies, musicals, revues, mysteries, and classics – that both resonate deeply and entertain joyfully.

“With Deathtrap, we begin that journey in the perfect way: a play that blends wit, suspense, and surprise, reminding us of the enduring power of live theatre to captivate and connect. But this is only the beginning. In the near future, we look forward to offering theatre classes for teens and adults, creating opportunities for growth, expression, and community engagement.”   

“What makes a thriller so irresistible?” Director Kondelik asks. “Perhaps it’s the delicious tension of not knowing what’s around the corner – or the guilty pleasure of being one step ahead of the characters on stage. 

“As a director, what excites me most about thrillers is the shared experience they create. Suspense is never a solitary emotion – an audience gasps together, laughs nervously together, even holds its collective breath together. That communal heartbeat is why these stories endure, why we return to them, and why Deathtrap remains one of the greatest examples of theatrical thrills.”

Deathtrap will run at Empire Stage from October 10th through November 2nd.  Tickets are $40 and can be purchased online at https://upstageproductions.net or by calling 954-264-1461. 

For more information about Upstage Productions, or Deathtrap, to speak with Janice Hamilton, or to arrange to see a performance, please contact Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244.

~

Deathtrap
By Ira Levin
October 10 – November 2
Directed by Deborah Kondelik
Tickets:  $40
For tickets:  https://upstageproductions.net
Phone:  954-264-1461
Performances:
Friday & Saturday at 8 pm
Sunday at 5 pm
All performances will take place at 
Empire Stage1140 N Flagler Drive,
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

(Click on each image to enlarge it, then right click on the enlarged image and ‘save image as’ or ‘copy image’)

Photos by Amy Pasquantonio:

Photos by David Bishop: