Joseph Schommer performs in new play in NYC

MONROE-Joseph Schommer, Monroe-Woodbury graduate and 2003 alumnus of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, stars in Anthony P. Pennino's new play, "Italian-American Cantos." The show opened April 18 and runs through May 8 at the Abingdon Theatre Arts Complex in New York City. The play looks at what it means to be Italian-American in the modern world, and follows the story of first cousins Gio (Schommer) and Vin as they grow from teenagers to men. How they change, how their families change and how the modern world alters time-honored family traditions is at times funny and touching, triumphant and tragic. Italian-American Cantos goes beyond the Mafia stereotypes and bias, to bring audiences a rich, complicated and beautiful part of today's American culture. Schommer's recent stage appearances in New York City have included roles as Berowne in "Love's Labours Lost" and Dennis Cain in "One for the Road." Locally he has appeared in Forestburgh Playhouse's "Witness for the Prosecution" and in several community theater productions, including Creative Theatre-Muddy Water Players' "Brighton Beach Memoirs" as Eugene Jerome. His last role in high school was as Emile DeBecque in "South Pacific." "Italian-American Cantos" is staged by the SOOP (Seat of Our Pants) Theatre Company under the direction of Gregory Simmons, and produced by Paul Romanello. SOOP Theatre Company at Abingdon Theatre Arts Complex is located at 312 West 36th Street - 1st floor (between 8th and 9th Avenues). Tickets are $15. General Admission/open seating. Purchase online at www.smarttix.com or call SmartTix at 212-868-4444 For more information, visit http://www.nytheatre.com/nytheatre/italamer.htm