Schoolcraft College Theatre’s 2019-2020 season continues with A.R. Gurney’s charming comedy, Sylvia, directed by faculty member Paul Beer. The play runs from Jan. 24 through Feb. 1, including a Sunday matinee on Jan. 26. 

Friday and Saturday performances are at 8 p.m. in the James R. Hartman Theatre on the Livonia Campus. The Sunday matinee begins at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased online at www.schoolcraft.edu/theatre, by calling 734-462-4596 or at the door. 

The heart-warming comedy premiered off-Broadway in 1995 with Sarah Jessica Parker in the title role. Both the play and Parker were nominated for Drama Desk awards. 

Sylvia introduces its title character, a dog, who is found in a New York park by Greg and brought home to his less-than-enthusiastic wife, Kate. Sylvia is a terrific escape from middle age and a dwindling career as a financial trader for Greg. But she disrupts Kate’s rising career and freedom as an empty-nester in the city, and threatens Kate’s relationship with Greg. A.R. Gurney spins a funny and engaging story about this most human dog and her role in the lives of her new family. 

Beer said the production will use Gurney’s more family-friendly dialogue, but some subject matter may not be appropriate for young audiences.

The play’s cast and crew feature Schoolcraft students and community members. Beer previously directed On Golden Pond and Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House at Schoolcraft, and just closed his production of Rabbit Hole.  “I’m looking forward to this comedy,” he said.  “It’s a great twist on marriage, change and growth, and it’s really entertaining!”