Drawing from his experiences as a New York University student, composer and lyricist Adam Gwon has created what he said is his most personal show, an idea he got while reading Virginia Woolf's novel, Mrs. Dalloway.
"I was reading it on the subway and started thinking about the strange connection between myself and the author," he said. "How our lives are filled with all kinds of bizarre convergences."
An experienced composer, Gwon is bringing this new musical, sponsored by Pennsylvania Center Stage, to Citizens Bank Theatre, 146 S. Allen St.. The world premiere of Ordinary Days will take place at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Gwon has created the music for numerous musicals including Bernice Bobs Her Hair, Ethan Frome, Lulu and Some Place Like Home.
Actor Stanley Bahorek, a Broadway veteran playing the character of Jason in Ordinary Days, said he feels strongly connected to the material.
"It tells the story of four young people living in New York City and how their lives surprisingly intersect and affect one another," Bahorek said.
The story focuses on four 20-somethings making their way through life in New York City, Bahorek said.
"Adam has beautifully captured both the essence of the sometimes trying, sometimes magical experience of living in New York City, as well as the struggles that so many modern young adults face -- what is my big picture?" Bahorek said.
Many people can relate to the show in a meaningful way, Gwon said.
"As a writer, I really can't ask for anything better than that," he said.
The storyline of the musical is told through a series of songs, Bahorek said.
Jared Gertner, who plays the character of Warren, said everyone involved is genuinely excited to be a part of the show.
"There is such an exciting energy in rehearsals," Gertner said, adding the show is close to his heart, and he's excited to be a part of it.
As for Wally Heppenstall (freshman-division of undergraduate studies), he said he most likely will go see the show.
"It definitely sounds like an interesting idea for a musical," he said.
The show will run in the Citizens Bank Theatre until Aug. 2. Tickets are $24 and are available at Penn State Tickets Downtown, Eisenhower Box Office, Bryce Jordan Center or by calling 814-863-0225 or 1-800-ARTS-TIX.
"We are so moved by the way that Penn State and Pennsylvania Centre Stage has embraced this show," Gertner said. "I hope that everyone comes out to see us."
