13th of Paris

By Mat Smart

Directed by Melia Bensussen

Originally produced at City Theater, Pittsburgh, PA .

January 24, 2008 through February 17, 2008

About the Premiere Production: In this charming and theatrical romantic comedy, Vincent travels to an apartment in Paris carrying only a suitcase filled with the surprising love letters of his late grandparents. When he begins receiving romantic advice from a dapper ghost in a pinstripe suit, Vincent wonders if the love he imagines is possible, even in the 13th of Paris.

Artistic Statement: Mat Smart is one of the most exciting young playwrights I've come across in several years, and his early work has attracted the attention of theatre professionals and audience members alike. The 13th of Paris displays Smart's unique voice and style. While most of his peers are writing about drugs, crime and disaffected, shopping-mall-addled youth, Smart's subjects are romantic, poetic and elegantly theatrical. He has a great mastery of his craft; writes sharp, funny dialogue and creates vivid, memorable characters. The 13th of Paris is well-constructed, provides actors with great roles and has the potential to be exceptionally audience-pleasing.


Director: Melia Bensussen

Lighting Design: Andrew David Ostrowski

Sound Design: Joe Pino

Subsequent Productions: Subsequent production at The Public Theatre in Auburn, Maine

News

“Smart has interesting things to say about life and love -- not just about the differences between a Chicago bar and a Paris cafe, but about the larger differences which both unite and divide us. He doesn’t solve the enigma of love, of course, but he makes us feel good about love’s possibility.”

- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

“At 90 minutes without intermission, the play, directed by Melia Bensussen, moves along with seamless efficiency and abundant good humor.”

- Pittsburgh Live