Lindenhurst theater stages 9/11 drama "The Guys" to honor first responders and their families
Studio Theater of Long Island's production of "The Guys" tells the true story of an FDNY captain writing eulogies for firefighters lost on Sept. 11.
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In Lindenhurst, the Studio Theater of Long Island is presenting "The Guys," a play that explores the aftermath of 9/11 and the lasting impact the tragedy had on first responders, their families and their communities.
According to the theater, the production's first performance took place on the evening of the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and left a strong emotional impact on audience members.
Cast and crew members say the story remains an important one to tell.
The play is based on the true story of an FDNY captain (played by Thomas O'Donoghue) who works with a journalist (played by Christine Cavagnet) to write eulogies for eight members of his firehouse who died during the Sept. 11 attacks.
Organizers say the performance is intended to bring the community together in remembrance, reflection and gratitude.
Both the director and one of the lead actors have personal connections to 9/11 through their experiences as first responders.
Actor Thomas O'Donoghue said his role is deeply personal.
“I'm bringing all of the emotions that I felt that day and beyond and continue to feel, and sort of plugging into similar emotions that he's having," O'Donoghue said. "So in a way, it feels like I'm not acting at all. It's just as if I'm talking about so many of the guys that I worked with over the years.”
Director Michael Blangiforti said the production helps ensure the victims of 9/11 are remembered as people with families, friends and meaningful lives.
“We say never forget because those people had families," Blangiforti said. "They were husbands. They were wives. They were mothers. They were fathers. They were sisters. They were brothers. They had friends and they mattered. They mattered. And that's why we needed to tell this story.”
The theater is donating a significant portion of the show's proceeds to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
Performances are on Sunday, Sept. 13 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m., and Thursday, Oct. 1 at 8 p.m.
