vex news 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

LOCAL ACTORS TAKE ON A NEW CHALLENGE:
"THE DESIGNATED MOURNER" OPENS JUNE 4

May 10, 2005

Chicago, IL - Three veterans of the suburban theatre scene take on a challenging production of the rarely performed play "The Designated Mourner" by Wallace Shawn. The play, produced by Vex Theatre Company, will be performed June 4, 5, 10, and 11 at Crossroads Theater, 22 E. Chicago Avenue in downtown Naperville.

"The Designated Mourner" tells the story of three people trying to survive under an oppressive government: Howard, a famous poet and political dissident; Judy, his daughter; and Jack, his son-in-law. The playwright, Wallace Shawn, was described by Salon magazine as "one of the most creative and confrontational American playwrights of our time."

In the lead role of Jack, Des Plaines resident Daniel J. Dudych, weaves a tale filled with twists and turns that are both emotionally charged and humorous. With more than 50 plays on his resume, Dudych's experience with both comedy and drama allow him to effectively play this complicated man.

Meanwhile, Harold LeBoyer of Rolling Meadows, a veteran of more than 100 suburban plays himself, brings his vast experience to the role of Howard, a famous intellectual who¹s politically-charged writing has put him on the bad side of a hostile government.

Also in the cast as "Judy" is Palatine-resident Cathleen Ann, who is also a founder of Vex Theatre Company. The play is directed by fellow Palatine-resident and Vex co-founder Richard Geiger. Says Ann: "We are thrilled to present this play as the inaugural production of our new company because it represents the sort of risks we want to take. This is an unusual play for both actors and audience because it does not follow the typical patterns of plot and character development. However, we think the end result is ultimately very rewarding for our audience members." 

"The Designated Mourner" performance dates:
Saturday, June 4, 8 pm
Sunday, June 5, 4 pm
Friday, June 10, 8 pm
Saturday, June 11, 8 pm
Location: 22 E. Chicago Avenue, Naperville, Illinois
Ticket Price: $15
Box Office: 630-428-4730

CAST: Daniel J. Dudych, Harold LeBoyer, Cathleen Ann
CREW: Richard Geiger, director

PHOTOS FROM THIS PRODUCTION ARE AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD AT WWW.VEXTHEATRE.ORG (or via request)

About Vex Theatre Company
Vex Theatre Company is an itinerant professional theatre company producing in the suburbs of Chicago. Vex was incorporated in 2004 by Palatine residents Cathleen Ann and Rich Geiger, and Michael Rios of Oswego.

NEXT AT VEX!
Vex's inaugural year continues this September with two shows by David Mamet, performed in rotating rep. "American Buffalo" and "Boston Marriage" will be performed September 16 - 25, 2005 at Crossroads Theater in Naperville. See the all-male cast of "American Buffalo" and the all-female cast of "Boston Marriage" in an event we like to call "Mamet Pink and Blue." Make a note on your calendars and look for more details in the coming months!