(Photo Courtesy of the Iron Horse Theatre Company in Ambridge)
AMBRIDGE –Iron Horse Theatre Co. debuts this weekend “Coach and Mrs. Jagoff,” a compelling two-act drama by local playwright Bruce Zewe.
Opening Friday at the Ambridge theater, the play takes place in the fictional town of Fisk, in Western Pennsylvania, exploring the emotional fallout and resilience of a high school football coach and his wife after he is abruptly fired.
Zewe’s script delves into the political vulnerability of long-time coaches and the personal toll such decisions can take.
“The Sebastians employ humor and grit in an effort to save their marriage,” Zewe explains. “The plot has an uplifting, human story arc, with both serious and light moments.”
Directed by Carnegie resident Danette Pemberton, the production features Eric Vollmer as Jake Sebastian and Amy Baschnagel as Lynn. Both leads bring rich personal histories to the stage, supported by a talented ensemble of Pittsburgh-area actors: Duncan Jameson, Ellen Kalik, Charissa McMahon, Adam Merulli, Lynne O’Meara, Matt Owens, and Joan Schwartz.
Iron Horse founder London Cain praised the play’s emotional depth and relevance. “It makes us think about why we judge others without really knowing them,” Cain said. “And why some people base their self-worth on the success of their local sports teams.”
Performances run over two weekends:
Evening Shows – August 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 at 7:30 p.m.
Matinee – August 17 at 2.
Tickets are $20 general admission and $18 for seniors, available at ironhorsetheatrecompany.com.