Gallo Center Rep Presents Steinbeck Classic In March

By Ryan Foy / Director of Produced Theatre & Special Programming / Gallo Center for the Arts

When the non-profit Gallo Center for the Arts opened in 2007, community engagement was a core element of its mission. This has been evidenced each season with a commitment to arts education that has helped introduce hundreds of thousands of area schoolchildren to the wonders of the performing arts. The organization took another step forward in community service when it founded the Gallo Center Repertory Company in 2016 to provide opportunities for local actors, directors and other theatre creatives.

Since then numerous stage productions have been successfully presented by GCRC, and this month (March 17 – 19) brings yet another example with our presentation of John Steinbeck's literary classic, Of Mice & Men, directed by Michael Lynch.

With its themes of friendship, loyalty, and tragedy, the timeless tale follows two migrant workers, George and Lennie, who dream of owning a piece of land and living off the “fat of the land.” Lennie, a gentle giant with brute strength, is a man-child who is obsessed with things soft and cuddly. George is cautious about who Lennie associates with, as his overgrown childlike tendencies often lead to trouble. The story takes a tragic turn when Lennie accidentally kills the ranch boss’ promiscuous wife, and George is faced with a moral dilemma.

The production features an incredibly talented local cast, including Sebastian Godina as George and Justin Ledezma as Lennie. Godina, a young actor currently studying at Stella Adler in Los Angeles, brings depth and nuance to George’s character, while Ledezma, a local actor who has been seen on stage at the Stockton Civic Theatre many times, delivers a heart-wrenching performance as the gentle giant Lennie.

Of Mice & Men is a powerful and thought-provoking production that that has resonated with audiences for generations.

The show features mature themes and content, including violence and profanity, but it is a mustsee for anyone who appreciates great theatre and powerful storytelling.

Tickets are available at GalloArts.org.

All audience members are invited to join a special talkback after the Sunday, March 19 performance, where you can discuss the play's continuing relevance, artistic impact, and historical significance with local community leaders and the creative team.

We hope to see you there!