A Walk in the Woods, John & Jen and More on Tap for Keen Co. Season

The Keen Company’s 2014-15 season will include the first major New York revival of A Walk in the Woods, as well as a revival of the Andrew Lippa and Tom Greenwald musical John & Jen. Both productions will play off-Broadway’s Clurman Theatre at Theatre Row.

The season kicks off on September 9 with Lee Blessing’s A Walk in the Woods. The drama tells the story of a Russian veteran and an American newcomer who meet informally after long, frustrating hours of peace talks. Tony nominee Kathleen Chalfant will take on the role of Botvinnik, originally written for a male, with Paul Niebanck as John Honeyman. The production will open officially on September 30 and run through October 18.

With music by Lippa, lyrics by Greenwald and a book by both, John & Jen explores familial connections and commitments. The musical tells the story of Jen and her relationship with two Johns in her life: her younger brother and her son. Performances will begin on February 10. Opening night is set for March 3.

The season will also include a one-night-only benefit reading of John Patrick’s The Hasty Heart, which was originally presented by the Keen Company in 2004. The event will feature most of the production’s original cast: Stephen Bradbury, Emily Donahoe, Anthony Manna, Keith Nobbs, Brian Sgambati, and Paul Swinnerton.

Both A Walk in the Woods and John & Jen will be directed by Jonathan Silverstein. A Walk in the Woods will feature scenic design by Scott Bradley, lighting design by Josh Bradford, costumes by Jennifer Paar and sound design by M.L. Dogg.