Shakespeare Theatre Company Will Stage Eugene O'Neill's Hughie

The Shakespeare Theatre Company, recipient of the 2012 Regional Theatre Tony Award, delves into the 2012-2013 Season with an intimate look at two lonely souls in Eugene O'Neill's Hughie. This two-man show by one of the most famous American playwrights will be directed by Broadway veteran Doug Hughes. The production runs at STC's Lansburgh Theatre (450 7th Street NW) from January 31-March 17, 2013.

One of O'Neill's later works, Hughie is a commanding study of "Erie" Smith, a man whose illusions of a grand lifestyle are wavering after the death of the stranger who quietly validated his larger-than-life confidence. Erie is searching for a new person to affirm his transparent fantasies or else he will be forced to face his own crushing self-pity. Hughie stands to transfix its audience with the raw force wrought by one of O'Neill's most stirring characters.

Playing the lead role is prolific television and film star Richard Schiff, known to national audiences for his role as Toby Ziegler on The West Wing. Schiff comes to STC straight from Broadway where he is playing George Aaronow in Glengarry Glen Ross.

Hughes said he has felt drawn to this play for some time. "Hughie is a play that has long been on my to-do list.  It's great and unique O'Neill, a compact, richly atmospheric, incisively funny and mysterious play that takes place in that twilight region known to all of us who have suffered loss.  I guess that qualification would apply to everyone on this planet," Hughes said. Additionally, this production has given Hughes the chance to realize several artistic ambitions. "I was thrilled when Michael Kahn asked if I'd be interested to work on so humane and so special a play at the superb Shakespeare Theatre Company.  I am equally thrilled that I will be fulfilling another ambition, working with the remarkable Richard Schiff on a great American role."