A Life in the Theatre, Starring Patrick Stewart and T.R. Knight, to Close Early

A Life in the Theatre, starring Patrick Stewart and T.R. Knight, is closing early. The first-ever Broadway production, directed by Neil Pepe, of David Mamet’s 1977 valentine to the stage will close at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre on November 28. The limited engagement was originally scheduled to play through January 2, 2011.

A behind-the-scenes peek at the challenge of actors battling to share both a dressing room and the spotlight, A Life in the Theatre follows two actors in a repertory company: Robert, an older, experienced performer and John, a newcomer to the stage. John at first welcomes Robert’s guidance, but soon overshadows his mentor. From rehearsals to reprisals, from ego trips to acting tips, the play gives a glimpse into the complex relationship that develops as the torch is passed from one generation to the next—a passing that wavers from love and mutual respect to impatience and resentment.

A Life in the Theatre began previews on September 21 and opened on October 12. It has struggled at the box office since opening, grossing $218,150 for the week ending October 31 and playing to 39.33% of capacity.