What's the Word For set for Illusion Theater
Mar 2, 2012

Acclaimed writer Jeffrey Hatcher's newest play, WHAT'S THE WORD FOR, was developed as part of Illusion Theater's 2011 Fresh Ink series. On March 30, the gentle story-featuring an unconventional yet heartwarming relationship-comes back to the Illusion where it will have its world premiere as a fully-developed mainstage production. What's the Word For will run through April 21 at the at the downtown Minneapolis theater, located on the eighth floor of The Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts, 528 Hennepin Ave.

In this touching, thoughtful and humorous play directed by Michael Robins, Mrs. Caleodis (Tony-nominated Melissa Hart in her Illusion debut) is in her 80s and loves crossword puzzles. Former film instructor Hayden (Michael Paul Levin) is 30 years younger and loves watching movies. Brought together by circumstance, the pair help each other cope with the painful reality of life off the silver screen. After 17 years of creating their own brand of family, they are faced with a difficult decision and a sense that the choice isn't actually theirs to make.

What's the Word For is Hatcher's eighth assignment for the award-winning theater. His Illusion commissions have been produced nationally, including Three Viewings at the Manhattan Theatre Club, Murderers at the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, and Mrs. Mannerly at Houston's Alley Theater. The prolific playwright's works have been on Broadway and off-Broadway, and many other stages around the country. His screenwriting credits include Casanova with Heath Ledger (2005) and The Duchess with Keira Knightley (2008).

In addition to director Michael Robins, the What's the Word For creative team includes Dean Holzman (set design), Kevin Springer (sound design), Sondra Veldey (costume designer) and Michael Wangen (lighting design).

Tickets for What's the Word For are $15-28. Discounts are available for matinees, children and groups of 10 or more people. Tickets are available at the Illusion Theater Box Office at 612-339-4944 or online at www.illusiontheater.org.

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