Las Positas College (LPC) Theater Arts is proud to present its spring production, Legends of Realism, a dramatic series of three iconic one-act plays and musical interludes. This production also marks an exciting new partnership between LPC, the Eugene O’Neill Foundation, and the National Park Service. The production will run from May 2-11 on both the LPC campus at the Mertes Center for Arts Black Box Theater and Eugene O-Neil Tao House in Danville.

“It’s very exciting to be working on a project like this with LPC Theater,” said Assistant Director William Burgess. "We’ve never done anything like this before and getting to work on such a unique project is such a great opportunity.”

Directed by Dyan McBride, Legends of Realism brings to life Thirst by Eugene O’Neill, Trifles by Susan Glaspell, and The Bear by Anton Chekhov. The production explores gripping themes through three distinct settings: an abandoned raft drifting in shark-infested waters, a lonely farmhouse hiding dark secrets, and a battle of wills between two impassioned lovers in a Russian drawing room. 

The cast features 19 talented actors, including 16 members of the LPC Actors Conservatory. Among the incredible cast of 19 actors are Ashley Jensen, Bee Azevedo, Brandon Shepherd, Demi Starzak, Jacklene Garci, Jonathan Tanner, Kale Brown, Kiana Porr, Kyle Davidian, Liam Strait, Maahee Joshi, Marshawn Wesley, Mason Homer, Michael Patin, Nikki Bonato, Renn Ma, Ryan Morris, Scout Del Real, and Scythe Martin. 

“Given the chance to work on something as timeless and unique as this has allowed me to better understand myself and my craft,” shared Ryan Morris who plays The Sailor. Michael Patin who is in the octet and plays as an understudy for The Gentleman and Grigory Smirnov reflected on the juxtaposition of the play. “I am excited by the wide juxtaposition of the pieces and the nuances of how you have to play each one.” 

Performances will take place over two weekends: 

• May 2-4 at the LPC Mertes Center for the Arts Black Box Theater (Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m.). 
• May 10-11 at the Eugene O’Neill Tao House in Danville (Saturday and Sunday at 7 p.m.).