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LIFE & ARTS

Production brings a relatable story to stage

Play centers on social worker dealing with his new job

by ROSHAN BHATT
The Daily Cougar

Theater students will premier their latest production, The Boys Next Door, at 7:30 p.m. tonight in the Jose Quintero Lab Theatre. 

"There is a lot of honesty in this play," lead actor and theater senior Noe Mendoza said. "That is why I was attracted to this project in the first place."

Director Raymond Deeb's newest project is a comedy originally written by playwright Tom Griffin in 1995. It focuses on a burned-out middle-aged social worker named Jack Palmer, played by Mendoza, who has recently landed a job where he is required to take care of and guide several mentally handicapped adults. 

In the play, Jack tries to find happiness and a sense of belonging as he struggles in his new position. 

The Boys Next Door is a comedy, but it also features a soft side. 

"(The play) is a story of humanity at its best," Mendoza said. "Not only do we see their challenges, but we get a chance to see them as human beings." 

Mendoza said he enjoys the versatility and vulerability of his character.

"Jack is such an honest and realistic character, and just about anyone can relate to him," Mendoza said. "After all, he is trying to live life to the best of his ability."

The Boys Next Door will run every night at 8 p.m. until Monday's finale. Admission is free. 

"It has a great message," Deeb said. "People do not want to miss this." 

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