Life Lessons from New Times

Some people find Mitch Albom’s heartwarming-as-apple-pie novel Tuesdays with Morrie a tad trite. Haters. They’re either jealous writers who think that Albom’s life-affirming messages are facile or they’re drunks who think all that happy-crappy stuff is pure bullshit but still clutch their pillow at night wondering why life isn’t working out so great for them. Sure, that’s heavy judgment to level, but what do you want from us, some sobering life lesson? Go read The Alchemist, you tarts.

Still, for those who are perfectly comfortable with their affection for Hallmark cards, Tuesdays with Morrie has been adapted into a play. It’s the story of Albom’s interactions with his aged professor, Morrie Schwartz, who’s been stricken with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. During the last few months of Morrie’s life, he and Albom share a lot of tender moments that lead to deep introspection on the part of Mitch. The premise may be pretty common ground, but since the play’s going to be hitting the stage at the Caldwell Theatre Company’s Count de Hoernle Theater (7901 N. Federal Hwy., Boca Raton) expect a faithful and touching adaptation – even if you’re a writer or a drunk (same thing). Morrie runs from April 6 to May 11. Tickets start at $36. Call 561-241-7432, or visit www.caldwelltheatre.com.
Wed., April 9, 2008