Manhattan Theatre Club's production of Florian Zeller's The Father, with a translation by Christopher Hampton, plays its final performance June 19. The American premiere takes with it the performance of Frank Langella, who won the 2016 Tony Award as Best Leading Actor in a Play for it just one week ago. He plays the title role, a man falling into the grip of dementia. It was Langella's fourth Tony Award.
Update: Langella will miss the final performance owing to illness, according to a production spokesperson. The role will be played by his understudy, Anthony Newfield. Refunds will be issued if patrons no longer wish to attend. For refunds, contact Telecharge customer service at (212) 239-6200.
The cast also includes Tony nominee Kathryn Erbe (The Speed of Darkness), Brian Avers (Rock 'n' Roll, The Lieutenant of Inishmore), (), Drama Desk Award nominee (Pumpgirl, Grounded) and Kathleen McNenny.
With direction by Doug Hughes, previews for The Father began March 22 at the Theatre; the show officially opened April 14 to critical acclaim.
According to production notes, The Father 鈥渙ffers a fascinating look inside the mind of Andre (Frank Langella), a retired dancer living with his adult daughter Anne and her husband. Or is he a retired engineer receiving a visit from Anne who has moved away with her boyfriend? Why do strangers keep turning up in his room? And where has he left his watch?鈥�
The creative team for The Father includes (scenic design), Catherine Zuber (costume design), (lighting design), Fitz Patton (original music and sound design) and Jim Steinmeyer (illusion consultant).
