The Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company is pleased to open the regional premiere of Jon Marans' A Strange and Separate People on October 12, 2013.

This contemporary drama of betrayal and new beginnings focuses on Jay and Phyllis-a young, Upper West Side, Orthodox Jewish couple whose marriage unravels when Jay becomes romantically involved with Stuart-a young doctor who is handsome, cocky, and strangely charismatic. Stuart is also Orthodox but has recently been awakened to his religion. A Strange and Separate People explores the struggle for many to accept their homosexuality while observing their religious beliefs, and questions the meaning of love.

A Strange and Separate People will run October 12 through November 3, 2013 and will be directed by Kurt Schweickhardt.  This is Mr. Schweickhardt's sixth production with MJTC; his previous productions include Old Wicked Songs, also by Jon Marans.

Barbara Brooks, producing artistic director at MJTC shares, "The overarching theme of Jon's plays tend to address self discovery and struggling with one's personal beliefs. A Strange and Separate People is a compelling play that will encourage community discussion and, hopefully, understanding and acceptance. Jon's play Old Wicked Songs, which we produced in 1997, is one of my most favorite plays.  I couldn't be more pleased with an opportunity to again introduce a new work of Jon's to Minnesota audiences."

MJTC would also like to welcome back to the stage Elena Giannetti. Ms. Giannetti previously appeared in Our Class, My Name is Asher Lev, and Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins, and will play the role of Phyllis in A Strange and Separate People. Other acting credits include the Guthrie, Park Square, History Theatre, Penumbra, Mixed Blood, TRP, Children's Theatre, Playwrights' Center, Off Leash Area, MN Shakespeare Project.

  Brand new to the MJTC stage are Brandon Bruce (Jay) and Nate Cheeseman (Stuart). Mr. Bruce is a recent transplant to the Twin Cities and has performed with such theaters as the Cleveland Play House, Porthouse, Signal Ensemble, and Iowa Summer Repertory.  Mr. Cheeseman recently graduated from the University of Minnesota/Guthrie BFA Actor Training Program.  MJTC is delighted to have a dynamic cast to bring this play to life at MJTC.

A Strange and Separate People will run October 12 through November 3, 2013.