Wayne State University's Hilberry Theatre opens the 2003-2004 season with the John Guare comedy The House of Blue Leaves on Friday, October 3, 2003, at 8:00 p.m. This opening is closely followed by our annual President's Preview Gala on Saturday, October 4, 2003.

The House of Blue Leaves is a dark yet comedic look at the values of American society and the seemingly insurmountable obstacles of life. It's October 4, 1965, and the Pope is visiting New York City. Artie Shaughnessy is a struggling songwriter who spends his days as a zookeeper and caretaker of his insane wife. Artie's mistress, Bunny, hopes to have the Pope bless a marriage between her and Artie. Bunny actively encourages Artie's musical career and has an understandable distain for his wife. Artie's son Ronnie just went absent with out leave (AWOL) from the Army and plans to attack the pontiff during his upcoming speech at Yankee Stadium.

Artie is torn between his dream of making it in the music industry and a deep obligation to his wife. This moral dilemma is the cause for family strife and desperation as well as genuine comic moments. Guare leads us through the familiarity of circumstance and of fate.

Director James Thomas chose to focus on the deep, emotional undertone of the play while still recognizing the obvious comedy of the piece. "It's plain that Blue Leaves is both funny and serious, a comedy with a sad heart," says Thomas.

This thought-provoking comedy was the winner of an Obie Award and the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for the Best American Play of 1970-71. It also received four Tony Awards during its 1986 revival including Best Featured Actor, John Mahoney and Actress, Swoosie Kurtz.

The House of Blue Leaves opens on October 3, 2003, and plays in rotating repertory through December 6, 2003.

Ticket prices range from $12 - $20, with student rush tickets available the day of the performance for 50% off. Group discounts are also available. For tickets and further information, please contact the Wayne State University Theatre box office at 4743 Cass Ave., or call (313) 577- 2972.