New Repertory Theatre Presents "Long Day’s Journey Into Night"

Over the next three weeks, theater-goers can catch a Pulitzer Prize-winning drama by one of America's most renowned playwrights. Eugene O'Neill's "Long Day's Journey Into Night" which opens at the Arsenal Center for the Arts on Sunday, April 1 and runs through April 22. 

O'Neill's semi-autobiographical story delves into the addictions, deceit, and regrets of a dysfunctional Connecticut family in 1912.

The New Rep production is directed by Scott Edmiston, who heads the Office of the Arts at Brandeis University. Edmiston also has directed more than 60 productions throughout the Greater Boston area.

"This is one of the four great American plays," Edmiston says, "along with 'Our Town,' 'Death of a Salesman,' and 'A Streetcar Named Desire.' Like them, it has resonated with the American psyche and experience profoundly. O'Neill wanted to create a modern tragedy and did so by looking within himself, exposing the sorrows within his own family. It's perhaps the most devastating family play ever written."

The show features Will Lyman as James Tyrone and Karen MacDonald as Mary Cavan Tyrone. The couple's sons are played by Nicholas Dillenburg (Edmund), and Lewis Wheeler (Jamie).

"It's a very gifted group," says Edmiston. "Karen and Will are two great talents in this city. It's thrilling to collaborate with them on such career-defining roles. In his audition, Lewis Wheeler blew me away – he was absolutely fearless. Nick Dillenberg is one of the most exciting young actors today." 

"Long Days Journey Into Night" marks the sixth production of the New Repertory Theatre's 2011-2012 season. 

According to Artistic Director Jim Petosa, "New Rep creates first class productions of 'the greats' in dramatic literature.  This creative team represents a collection of theatre artists that are among the finest in our region. It's a joy for us to bring this play to new life with these collaborators."

Sunday's opening performances are at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in the Charles Mosesian Theatre. For additional show times and tickets prices, visit the New Rep's website.