NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA � October 20, 2003 � The Lone Star Ensemble, the theatre company founded and operated by Travis Schuldt (Ethan #1), is pleased to announce its upcoming production of Tony Kushner's THE ILLUSION, starring Natalie Zea (Gwen #2). A timeless fairy tale peppered with Kushner's renowned wit and social satire, THE ILLUSION illuminates sharp perspectives on family, deceit, love, and identity.

THE ILLUSION begins with a father who has long been separated from his son by a rift. Realizing the imminence of his own death, he is given an opportunity to change and make amends for the mistakes of the past. In the course of the story Kushner holds a mirror up to one's own life, forcing the audience to face the challenges of change when sacrifice is required.

In the tradition of Lone Star's past productions, THE ILLUSION will feature innovative staging and cutting-edge lighting techniques, remaining true to the play's original text while simultaneously offering the Ensemble's unique interpretation of Kushner's material.

The October 24 and November 21 performances of THE ILLUSION will feature a special $5 question-and-answer reception after the show. Refreshments will be served.

THE ILLUSION is directed by Elizabeth Mestnik. Ensemble cast members include Natalie Zea, Kathryn Gordon, and Brian Stanton; with new Lone Star actors Lauren Maher, Christopher T. Wood, Jay Sefton, David St. James, Mark Gagliardi, Kirstin Kluver, Jessica Pohly, and Maeve Sullivan. Corielle Lopez stage manages and Kate McKiernan serves as production manager / assistant director.

The October 23 show will be a preview performance, featuring James Kerwin in the role normally occupied by Christopher T. Wood.

THE ILLUSION runs Thursdays through Saturdays at 8:00 pm and Sundays at 7:00 pm, October 23 - November 23 at The El Portal's Circle Theatre, 5269 Lankershim Blvd. (near Magnolia) in North Hollywood. There will be no performance on October 26. Tickets are $15. For reservations call 310-410-1850.

Founded in early 2000, the Lone Star Ensemble is a donor-supported non-profit corporation dedicated to the advancement of theatre arts throughout the Los Angeles community. The Ensemble has received widespread critical acclaim for its innovative multimedia adaptations of the rare Shakespeare pieces "Venus and Adonis" (2001) and "Cardenio" (2002), earning honors for Overall Production, Ensemble Performance, and Directing on "Back Stage West" critic Paul Birchall's "Best of 2002" list. Earlier this year, Lone Star garnered international attention for mounting the world premiere of Amber Benson's "Albert Hall."

For more information, visit lonestarensemble.org

Writers who wish to submit a ten-minute play (or plays) for consideration in the Festival must download, print, and fill out the official Entry Form from the Lone Star Ensemble website (lonestarensemble.org).

The entry deadline is January 15, 2004, with a late deadline of February 15.

Also...

There are two weekends remaining for Lone Star's current production of Tony Kushner's THE ILLUSION, starring Ensemble member Natalie Zea (Gwen #2), now playing at the El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood. "Variety" calls Lone Star's latest "Laugh-out-loud funny... a bright and buoyant blend of 17th century attitudes and contemporary farce, highlighted by witty performances and spirited direction. A highly entertaining study of relationships that has relevance in every period." And "L.A. Weekly" recommends THE ILLUSION for its "Finely tuned comedy... smoothly directed with fine performances."

Call 310-410-1850 for reservations.

Founded in early 2000, the Lone Star Ensemble is a donor-supported non-profit corporation dedicated to the advancement of theatre arts throughout the Los Angeles community. The Ensemble has received widespread critical acclaim for its innovative multimedia adaptations of the rare Shakespeare pieces "Venus and Adonis" (2001) and "Cardenio" (2002), earning honors for Overall Production, Ensemble Performance, and Directing on "Back Stage West" critic Paul Birchall's "Best of 2002" list. Earlier this year, Lone Star garnered international attention for mounting the world premiere of Amber Benson's "Albert Hall."