'Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike' Coming to Coronado

Written by Christopher Durang, "Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike" (VSMS) zeros in on the relationship of two middle-aged and single siblings who live together: Vanya, the gay one, and Sonia, the dry-witted one. Toss into that mix a third sibling, Masha, the cougar and the one who supports the other two, financially. The story takes off when Masha comes to visit.

Director Thomas Fitzpatrick says, "It was the writing of Christopher Durang that so piqued my interest as a director. It is a smart and hilariously written comedy that made me laugh and think. Vanya has such a poignant monologue about aging and how the world is changing around him. It hits so close to home."

"VSMS" marks Fitzpatrick's seventh show as a director at the Coronado Playhouse. He has worked on everything from "The It Girl" (2009) to the coproduction of "A Year with Frog and Toad" this past summer and next fall, Fitzpatrick will be directing "A Chorus Line."

Here's where things get a little wacky and fun... Philip John (as Vanya), who moves between San Diego and Los Angeles, has enjoyed roles at Diversionary and with the Playwrights Project, in addition to playing bit parts in films and as a pirate at Sea World. Of late, he has been on PBS in a auto donation commercial, breaking down on the freeway. John jokes, "They asked me to make the commercial, it was more of a documentary; 'Act like your car is breaking down...' That was not acting."

John recommends we get a drink and prepare to laugh. "Some of the lines in there, OMG it is funny, so bitchy funny! I like what Durang has to say to an older generation of gay men. My character has seen a lot over the last 30 years-a time when he was considered a pariah and not accepted. He carries regret, jealousy, bitterness, but he's funny and quick-witted. We have a sense of humor that is unique in our community and it keeps us alive. I am a similar age, not as old as the character, I thought, 'I gotcha, I've been there.' I grew a beard for the part, it is grey, but not that grey. I intend to shave it off after the show and keep lying about my age!"

Teri Brown joins in the role of Sonia and is on loan from OnStage Playhouse, in downtown Chula Vista, where she serves as Artistic Director. "Christopher Durang is controversial. He wraps a lot of subjects in a comedy and adds a lot of absurdity. This piece is a story about a family, his most accessible, pedestrian piece. My character enjoys commenting on the absurd... Usually I play the drunks and bitches. This is a fun challenge to play someone who is so negative and yet organically funny and ultimately likable."

"Another reason I really like this show, is if you wish to dig deeper and connect the dots with Chekov and all the Greek theatre, you will get more out of it. But if you don't, you will see it as a show about support systems and coming back home. To remember home is where your heart is.... it might not be perfect, but that is where the heart is," reflects Brown.

All comedy aside, Coronado Playhouse is also helping the community. M.G. Perez, Vice President at Coronado Playhouse, notes, "VSMS takes a comical look at a dysfunctional family. Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego provides children facing adversity with mentors who guide them in building healthier relationships, improving educational success and building self confidence. It's a perfect fit for our show. During the run of the show we will hold a volunteer drive to recruit potential Big Brothers and Sisters for the organization, especially to help children of active military members."

"Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike" runs Friday, November 13 through Sunday, December 20 at the Coronado Playhouse. For tickets and more information, call 619.435.4856 or go to coronadoplayhouse.com