YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Mahoning Valley premiere of “Glassheart” – a tragic comedy that takes an offbeat approach to the “Beauty and the Beast” story – will open Friday at Hopewell Theatre.
The play, written by Reina Hardy, looks in on the Beast and his remaining magical servant – an optimistic lamp. The two have moved into a shabby Chicago apartment, where they’re hoping for better luck with girls. They’re now a part of the mundane world of paying rent, taking public transportation and other daily struggles but are still looking for a happy ending.
Jaye Mills, director of the play, said the story has the appeal of a classic fairy tale but with a modern twist.
“Long gone is the castle full of hopeful, singing and dancing housewares,” he said.
The Beast is nearing the deadline for having any hope of breaking the curse and becoming a man again. The stakes are high, but his efforts result in some laughter and lightheartedness.
“‘Glassheart is an exploration of self-discovery, identity and what it really means to be human,” Mills said. “There is not a single line of dialogue wasted.”
The cast includes Maria Wright Ceraolo, Adam Dominick, Terri Norling and Eden Lesnansky.
“Glassheart” will be performed at 7:30 p.m. June 5-6 and 12-13; and 2 p.m. June 14.
To buy tickets in advance, click HERE.
The theater is at 702 Mahoning Ave., near downtown.
Pictured at top: Maria Wright Ceraolo and Eden Lesnansky in a scene from Hopewell Theatre’s production of “Glassheart.”