Party

StageQ​ will be presenting a one-­night only staged reading benefit performance of the international hit gay comedy "Party" by David Dillon on Wednesday, October 7, 2015, at 7:30 pm at the Bartell Theatre. The benefit will feature “Party’s” playwright David Dillon as Ray, the comic centerpiece of the play, a role he has played in numerous cities, and it also reunites him with two "Party" veterans ... StageQ President Michael Bruno who worked with Dillon as the Company Manager of the San Francisco production and Nic Arnzen who will be reading the part of Kevin, the host of the party. Arnzen originated the role of Peter in the Chicago production and went on to direct companies of the show in San Diego, Raleigh, and St. Petersburg.

The landmark comedy by Chicago native David Dillon premiered in Chicago in 1992 where it was instantly embraced by audiences and critics alike. Selling out before it had even completed its first weekend, the refreshing and uplifting glance into modern 1990s gay life was repeatedly extended and ran for over two years, becoming the longest running gay-­themed play in Chicago theatre history to date. “Party” then opened off­-Broadway at the Douglas Fairbanks Theatre on 42nd Street in March of 1995 and was an immediate hit with audiences and acclaimed by the even the most mainstream critics. The New York Times called it "Hilariously impassioned ... raucously funny ... a Christmas card snapshot of a happy extended family."

There have been over 35 productions in major cities across the U.S. as well as in London, Canada, and Mexico. Upcoming productions in discussion include a Los Angeles and London revival.

General seating. No reservation needed. A suggested $10 donation will be collected at the door. Cash or checks only. No credit or debit cards, sorry.