Newtown Actor Involved—

A New ‘Phenomenon’ At

Long Wharf Stage II

NEW HAVEN — Fifteen years ago, Randolph Wonder’s twin brother went into a bog to retrieve a fly ball and never returned. Now Randolph lives in the bog in a vigil of grief and guilt, in a ramshackle cabin he built by hand. But as the cabin starts sinking into the earth, and his three sisters arrive with three different agendas, Randolph must choose between seeking the dead and returning to life.

This is the story line for Phenomenon of Decline, a new play by Joe Tracz that will be produced by Next Stage Productions, an early career development program at Long Wharf Theatre for the next generation of theater artists. Under the direction of Artistic Director Gordon Edelstein and Managing Director Joan Channick, Phenomenon of Decline will run for four performances this weekend under the direction of Tyler James Green and featuring an all-Connecticut cast.

Performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, April 25-26, at 8 pm; as well as Saturday, April 26, at 3 pm; and Sunday, April 27, at 2 pm, on Long Wharf Theatre’s Stage II. Admission is free, but seat reservations can be made by calling the Long Wharf Theatre box office at 203-787-4282. Donations will be accepted and will benefit the Next Stage Program.

Phenomenon of Decline was developed at Kalamazoo College and the play went on to win first place in the 2005 American College Theatre Festival Region III One-Act Play competition.

Long Wharf Theatre’s Next Stage Program is an early career development program for the next generation of theatre artists. Hired through a highly competitive selection process, Next Stage residents and interns work and learn as staff members of one of the nation’s top theaters.

Through one production each season, Next Stage participants have the opportunity to express their unique artistic voices and showcase their incredible and diverse talents. Phenomenon of Decline is a continuation in Long Wharf’s commitment to the development of new works and gives audiences the rare opportunity to witness the future leaders of American theatre.

Phenomenon of Decline will feature New Haven resident Peter Chenot in the role of Randolph.

Shannon Bolcer of Fairfield, Darragh Garvey of New Haven, Sarah Kronenberg of New Haven and Jenny Schuck of Newtown round out the cast.