Salon Readings

by Brent Askari

This biting, witty comedy of manners concerns Ron and Joy, a middle-aged, professional couple who learn that Gary, their screw-up of a friend, has somehow managed to get a self-help book published. They’re having drinks before their anniversary dinner when Gary shows up – out of the blue – and informs them he’s quitting his steady job to promote the book and become a “life coach.” They try to dissuade him from this impractical plan, but Gary insists he’s onto something big. To make his case, he convinces Ron and Joy to try some of his relationship exercises and results are disastrous!

Location: West End Arts Center, 132 West End Ave, Long Branch

by Allan Staples
directed by Pamela Berlin

After a traumatic incident at a Las Vegas sportsbook, bookmaker Ben begins to question his life. He starts studying Judaism with a noted rabbi and considers leaving for Israel to become a rabbi himself. But leaving would mean walking away from Casey, his old-school mentor and father figure, and Zoe, a sharped-tongue cocktail waitress with whom he shares a complicated relationship. Ben is clearly torn between two worlds and knows he must soon make a life-changing choice.

Location: West End Arts Center, 132 West End Ave, Long Branch