'Prisoner of Second Avenue' opens April 15

In its first year Randall Hickman and Douglas Davis’ Broadway Theater in Vista is riding high. Its most recent production of “A Day in Hollywood… A Night in the Ukraine” enjoyed a four-week sold-out run. This little-known musical was chosen along with its current fair, “The Prisoner of Second Avenue,” because owner/producer/director Randall Hickman wanted to give audiences a chance to see the shows he fell in love with as a teen. “The first three shows on our season are productions that shaped my view of theater,” states Hickman.

“‘The Prisoner of Second Avenue’ is the funniest real show I had seen at that point in my life,” Hickman said. “This little-known work of Simon’s is just as relevant today as it was when it opened on Broadway in 1971.” The story centers around Mel Edison, a New York-based advertising man who goes through hell when he loses his job. The gods seem to conspire against him as he tries to cope with his unemployed status: he is particularly depressed over the fact that he must now rely on the income of his wife.

The cast is made up of a ‘Who’s Who’ in San Diego Theater. In the role of Mel Edison is San Diego and North County favorite Pat Moran. Pat has appeared on almost every stage in San Diego County; this will be his first appearance on the Broadway. In the role of Edna Edison, Mel’s wife, is Temecula resident (and Temecula Valley Players president) Katherine Forbes. San Diego’s Lucy Ann Albert portrays Pearl and Fallbrook’s Orolie Gubser fills the role of Pauline.

“Prisoner” plays for five weeks — April 15-May 15 — Fridays through Sundays at 2 and 7:30 p.m. The Broadway Theater is an intimate deco-fashioned theater that holds 49 seats. Because of its small size it sells out quickly. Call (760) 806-7905 for ticket info.

Because of language, this production is not recommended for children under 14.