Schmaltz

78th Street Theatre Lab presents Mark Zeller’s new comedy, Schmaltz, directed by Eric Nightengale. The play is a hilarious romp through the neuroses of a man on a quest for enlightenment and nourishment. In the middle of a mid-life crisis, Benny is unhappy, unhealthy and hungry for the comfort foods of his childhood: Gefilte fish with horseradish on Challah bread, egg creams and chicken fat sandwiches. In an attempt to lift Benny’s mood — and lower his cholesterol — his wife Irina puts him into a hypnotic trance that puts him face-to-face with family and food. It’s chicken fat sandwiches for the soul.

Due to positive critical and audience response, the production extends and moves to an Off-Broadway contract beginning Dec. 23, with performances Tuesdays at 8pm, Wednesdays at 3pm; Fridays & Saturdays at 8pm; and Sundays at 3pm.