Falsettos at Steel River Playhouse tells the story of a large, eccentric and dysfunctional — but loving — Jewish family in New York in the late 1970s.

The play is the story of Marvin, who seems blessed with the perfect family. He has a caring wife, Trina and a young son, Jason.

But the family is broken apart when Marvin leaves Trina for a man called Whizzer.

Trina ends up romantically involved with the family psychiatrist, Mendel, while, their son, Jason, is stuck in the middle.

When Marvin’s lover is diagnosed with AIDS, the entire family must put aside their issues and come together. (Audience note: The script contains adult themes and language and may not be appropriate for younger audiences.)

Director Lisa Hendricks said “When Falsettos premiered on Broadway in 1992, AIDS was the number one cause of death for men ages 25–44. The Red Ribbon project was launched a year prior and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) created a program to address HIV/AIDS in the workplace.

“The LGTBQ community faced violence, prejudice and inequality in basic human rights. The show forced audiences to come face to face with these issues.

“We’ve come a long way since then. HIV/AIDS is no longer a death sentence.

“But since 2020, over 100 bills attacking transgender people have been introduced in state legislatures. Same-sex couples continue to fight for equal rights in the face of discrimination across the country.

“In my eyes, acceptance and love are themes which should never be left unexpressed, and this show will remain relevant and timeless because of that.”

With book by William Finn and James Lapine, music and Lyrics by William Finn, this production is directed by Lisa Hendricks with music direction by John Williams.

This production is proudly sponsored by the Steel River Playhouse Board of Directors. Season sponsors are the Susan and Scott Bentley Foundation.

Performances are at 7 PM on Feb. 10, 11, 17 and 18, with 2 PM matinees on Feb. 12, 18, and 19.

The show runs about longer than two hours and has one intermission.

Tickets are $29 for adults, $24 for seniors (65+), and $17 for students.

Seats for Falsettos can be obtained at the virtual box office of the Steel River Playhouse.

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Here’s a bit of Falsettos from the 1992 Tony Awards.