“As we begin to celebrate our 30th Anniversary I can think of no better way than to kick off the celebration by having an American legend grace our stage this summer,” comments Artistic Director Rick Lombardo. “Not only will we all get the chance to share some time with Mr. Asner, but during the Great Recession, I’m looking forward to spending some time with FDR as well.”
Ed Asner is magnificent as FDR and delivers a fearless performance of this dynamic and powerful world leader.
FDR explores the life of one of America’s best-loved presidents and the events and decisions that shaped a nation. This powerful play follows the iconic president as he reflects on his years in office, from inauguration to the trials of World War II. FDR features a bravura performance by Asner as “that man in the White House,” scorned by many and admired by most. Travel along with one of America’s most cherished actors as he takes you on a captivating journey through FDR’s White House years from the depths of the Great Depression through the resident fabled “fireside chats,” Pearl Harbor and World War II.
Mr. Asner’s New York City Theatre credits include Ivanov, The Tempest, Face of a Hero, King Henry V, and Born Yesterday. Other theatrical credits include Woyzck, Volpone, Windowirs Houses, Dybbuk, Red Gloves, Murder in the Cathedral, Miss Julie, The Seagull, Peer Gynt, Juno and the Paycock, and Oedipus Rex. Additional television work includes appearances as a recurring guest star on the television series “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip” and an Emmy Award-Winning role as Captain Davies in the mini-series “Roots.” Most recently, Mr. Asner provided the voice of Carl Frederickson in Pixar’s Oscar nominated 2009 film, Up.
THEATRE GUILD, INC has produced a total of 228 plays on Broadway, including 18 by George Bernard Shaw and seven by Eugene O'Neill. In the field of musical theatre, the Guild has promoted works by Richard Rodgers, teamed with Lorenz Hart and Oscar Hammerstein II, George and Ira Gershwin, Jule Styne, and Meredith Wilson, all of which have become classics. Notable productions include Porgy and Bess, The Philadelphia Story, Oklahoma!, and Carousel.
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About the Rep:
San Jose Rep is the premier non-profit, professional theatre company in the South Bay, presenting six main stage productions each year. As a major contributor to South Bay’s cultural community for 29 years, the Rep’s mission is to engage, entertain and inspire people. The Rep produces innovative theatrical performances that offer fresh perspectives into the human condition, educational programs that promote life-long learning, and outreach initiatives that benefit our diverse community. For more information, visit www.SJRep.com