Second Street Players mark ‘Gin Game’ for Jan. 27 opening

The one-liners will be flying at the Riverfront Theater in Milford as the Second Street Players’ production of the 1978 Pulitzer Prize-winning play, “The Gin Game,” hits the stage beginning Friday, Jan. 27, at 2 S. Walnut St., Milford.

This fast-paced tragicomedy, written by D.L. Coburn, promises to captivate adult audiences while serving up equal portions of laugh-out-loud hilarity and gut-wrenching angst.

Delaware stage veterans Steven Perry and Gina Shuck portray the headstrong characters of Weller and Fonsia, who meet on the porch of a run-down nursing home. Feeling as though they don’t belong, Weller and Fonsia form a bond over their mutual distaste for their current circumstances and their enjoyment of playing gin rummy together. They find in one another intellectual companionship and perhaps a hint of something more.

It soon becomes evident that this is not simply about a game of cards, but a desperate battle of wills. As their card playing becomes more volatile, Weller and Fonsia spar relentlessly toward a stunning finale.

“This play is a classic,” said Chris Miller, director. “It won a Pulitzer in the 1970s. It won four Tonys. It was originally done by Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy. One of the most important things you need when you’re trying to create a really good production is a great script. And ‘The Gin Game’ is hands down a great script.”

Shows continue Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 28 and 29, and Friday to Sunday, Feb. 3 to 5. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7 p.m., and Sunday shows begin at 2 p.m. Seats are $20 with a $1 discount available to seniors, students and theater members. To purchase tickets or learn more, go to secondstreetplayers.com. To view the trailer, search The Gin Game - Second Street Players on YouTube.

Patrons who need assistance with the ticketing website or with other questions may email info@secondstreetplayers.com.