BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) West Herr Automotive Group President CEO Scott Bieler was so moved by a play that he saw last summer about addiction and recovery, that his Bieler Family Foundation has sponsored its return to the Shea's 710 Theater this weekend, January 12-15.
Not only that, but Bieler is offering it free to the community to make it accessible to all.
"I found myself halfway through the play, forgetting that it was a play. It was that real and that riveting," said Bieler.
People, Places and Things follows an actress who goes into rehab after coming unhinged onstage. It's a journey through addiction and recovery.
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It was so powerful that Bieler wanted to give it a second chance and foot the bill to provide free admission.
"I talked to the director, Loraine O'Donnell, and asked if we could bring it back and invite audiences that would benefit from it. It took 7 months, but we were able to get the rights to the play for a second time," he said.
The production is partnering with Save the Michaels of the World and other recovery agencies who will be on-site promoting awareness of Substance Use Disorder. After each performance there will be "panel discussions" with the cast, people who have struggled with addiction and recovery and professionals from support organizations.
"There are ten actors in the play, and every one of them returned, which they say is remarkable," noted Bieler. "The director and much of the crew came back. I went to the premiere last night and I'm very proud of the fact that
we were able to do this because this is a remarkable, remarkable play to see."
There are 5 performances and 550 theatre seats. "We're trying to sell-out every performance." You can go to the Shea's box office and check out ticket availability. "Even if it says sold out, you can get on a waiting list. I'm pretty confident you'll get in. Sunday might be the best day because it's competing with the Bills game. There will definitely be seats available then."
Tickets for this event are free but need to be reserved. Performances are Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m., and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2:00 p.m.
"Alex Malejs is the lead actress in this. And I'm telling everyone who comes to see this it is one of the most riveting and real performances that I've ever seen in my entire life by any performer. All of the actors are great, but she is exceptional, so a shout-out to her and Loraine O'Donnell for a lot of work and effort to make this a reality," added Bieler.
