Utah Tech University Theatre Program is launching its fall season with Neil Simon’s California Suite, running September 24–27 in the Eccles Black Box Theatre at the Dolores Eccles Fine Arts Center. The beloved comedy, set in 1979 at the Beverly Hills Hotel, blends humor and poignancy across four distinct but interconnected stories, all unfolding in Suite 203–204.
About the Play
Simon’s script introduces audiences to a parade of characters navigating crises both hilarious and heartfelt. From custody battles and marital secrets to Oscar-night disappointments and vacation meltdowns, each vignette captures the highs and lows of human connection. With wit, warmth, and biting humor, California Suite remains as relevant today as when it first debuted.
Director John Terry describes the production as an immersive experience: “The atmosphere of the theatre will immediately be off balance as the audience enters. The room celebrates a life of luxury and a facade that everything is as it should be, beautifully elegant. Underneath, the audience will see what happens behind closed doors when the characters have to drop the masks of polite society.”
Cast and Performers
The ensemble cast includes Gabriel Flowers (William Warren) and Adda Fernandez (Hannah Warren), Jairo Rubio (Marvin Michaels) with Annalena Jacobs (Millie Michaels), and Lydia Perry (Bunny), with Sophie Price as swing. Daniel Stirland and Sydney Lane appear as Sidney and Diana Nichols, while Tag Tapusoa and Ari DeGraaff take on Mort and Beth Hollender. Tyson Ruiz (Stu Franklyn) and Kaya Towne (Gert Franklyn) round out the cast, with Bode Mathews as swing.
Behind the Scenes
The creative team supporting the production includes Bree Stobbe (stage manager), Christy De La Cruz (assistant stage manager), and Sam Pope (assistant director). Scenic and props design are by Jasmin Low, costumes by Henry Janke, and technical direction by Shelby Burgess. Mason Gonzales designs lighting, while Walker Truesdell provides sound design and fight choreography. Allison Gibbes serves as dramaturg.
Ticketing and Details
Tickets are $10 for the general public and free for Utah Tech students and staff. Tickets go on sale September 9 and may be purchased online.
Performances run nightly at 7:30 PM, September 24–27, with a matinee at 2 PM on September 27.
This production is intended for adult audiences and contains mature themes, stage violence, and an offensive slur directed at an LGBTQ+ character.
California Suite offers an engaging night of laughter and reflection, making it a perfect way to begin Utah Tech Theatre’s fall season.
