It’s been 17 years since the St. Louis Actors’ Studio produced a play by Eugene O’Neill. This season, the studio will present one of his most accomplished plays, Long Day’s Journey Into Night, from February 7-23.
In the semi-autobiographical play, O’Neill delves into the complexities of the Tyrone family. The emotional story unfolds in one day as family members grapple with addiction, illness, and intricate family dynamics. Austin Pendleton, who is directing the play, brings a wealth of experience from an extensive Broadway career and a wide catalog of films.
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William Roth, founder and artistic director at the St. Louis Actors’ Studio acts as James Tyrone in the play.
“Eugene O’Neill, as any theater producer knows, is probably one of our finest playwrights,” Roth says. “I saw [Long Day’s Journey Into Night] on Broadway and I absolutely fell in love with it, so I was itching to put it in the season.”
Although the play was written in the 1940s and is set in the early 20th century, Roth says that the work will resonate with modern audiences due to its accessibility and relatability to the human experience.
“Even though it takes place at the turn of the century, even though we’re in period clothing, even though it’s written in the ‘40s, it’s very modern in the way it’s written,” Roth says. “You can relate to everything—the family relationships, the various addictions, excuses, and codependencies that happen between human beings. It’s just human relationships at its core.”
Alongside the script, the theater space itself acts as a crucial component. The 18-by-18-foot Gaslight Theater (358 N. Boyle) stage complements the storytelling and adds to the intimate experience of the production.
“Because it’s only 18-by-18 feet, it is perfect for the intimacy of the story, the intimacy of the core family unit at home together,” Roth says. “The intimacy of the audience being right there next to us makes this a perfect choice for that environment.”
Roth says that the play offers a deeper understanding of human complexities, helping audiences relate more easily to family or friends facing addiction or navigate the challenges of supporting loved ones. He also says that the play reminds audiences to not pre-judge certain forms of entertainment because they’re “old” or “out of the way.”
“As melancholy as it could be, it is fascinating and beautiful,” Roth says. “It’s a magnificent opportunity to see some fine American literature on stage.”
Long Day’s Journey Into Night runs February 7-23 at The Gaslight Theater, 358 N. Boyle. For tickets and more information, visit stlas.org.
