'Sylvia' Opens at Center Playhouse With Fundraiser

The begins a five-week run of Sylvia Thursday, July 21 with a fundraiser well suited to the canine comedy: a portion of proceeds from opening night will benefit Rose’s Fund for Animals and the Monmouth County SPCA.

Tickets for the “A Paws for Rescue” fundraiser are $40 each. The event begins at 6 p.m. and includes a reception and light buffet before the show, which begins at 7:30 p.m.

Sylvia, written by A.R. Gurney, tells the story of an odd love triangle involving a middle-aged man, the dog he adopts and his wife. After an altercation with his boss, Greg visits a park and finds an abandoned dog wearing a tag with the name Sylvia. His wife Kate is not happy about her husband bringing a dog into their apartment and feels jealous of Greg's relationship with Sylvia.

Carla Zackson Heller directed the Center Playhouse production of Sylvia. Caitlin Martin, of Leonardo, takes on the role of Sylvia; Tim Kelsey of Neptune stars as Greg; Lorin Ottone of Freehold, and Lori Anne Casciano, of Atlantic Highlands, share the role of Kate; and Aaron Ratzan plays three supporting roles in the comedy.

The show contains language and sexual references that may not be appropriate for children.

In addition to Thursday’s special opening night show, Sylvia will run Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from July 22 through August 21. The Friday and Saturday shows begin at 8 p.m. and the Sunday matinee starts at 2 p.m. Ticket prices are $24 for adults and $22 for seniors and students and include refreshments. Dining packages at , , or are available for $30 per ticket when purchasing online or calling the box office.

For more information, visit centerplayers.org or call 732-462-9093.