W.H.A.T. closes season with ‘The Fantasticks’

A charming love story, magical illusions and memorable music will bring the West Hudson Arts and Theater Company’s 2013-14 season to a close with a production of the world’s longest-running Tony-award winning musical, “The Fantasticks,” with book and lyrics by Tom Jones and music by Harvey Schmidt.

In the cast are: Dennis Oliveria, Kylie Marie Gonzalez, Michael Antonelli, Geoffrey Waumans, Jonathan Brandao, Dann Pryce, Jay Blau and Nick Ardito.

Robert Strauch directs. Performances are Friday, June 6, 7:30 p.m., Saturday June 7, 1:30 and 7:30 p.m., Friday, June 13, 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, June 14, 7:30 p.m. at the W.H.A.T. Theater, 131 Midland Ave., Kearny. Tickets are $18 for general admission; $15 for seniors and students.

A special dinner and show performance, in conjunction with the Hudson County Community College Foundation to benefit of its West Hudson Scholarship Committee, will be held on June 11, at 7:30 p.m., at San Carlos Fine Catering, Lyndhurst. Tickets are $75 per person and includes hospitality hour with hors d’ oeuvres and entertainment (cash bar), four-course dinner and the show.

Tickets for all performances are available online at www.whatco.org or by calling 201-467- 8624. Tickets are also available at the Angry Coffee Bean Café, 89 Ridge Road, North Arlington. Some tickets will also be available at the theater 30 minutes before each performance (cash or check only).

A classic coming-of- age story, “The Fantasticks” features two meddling, matchmaking fathers who scheme to get their children together. Once the couple is united, the real drama begins. Featuring the timeless songs “Try to Remember” and “Soon It’s Gonna Rain,” this is a celebration of love – first love, lost love, and ultimately, true love.

Learn more about the writer ...