By: Katrina Gross ~Staff Writer~

“The combination of comedy and drama work together seamlessly to create something really organic,” director Ed Stern said when asked what makes “This Is Our Youth” different from other Xavier productions.

“It explores the vulnerability of high school students transitioning into adult life. Whether it be continuing education or beginning permanent work.”

“This Is Our Youth,” a dramatic- comedy set in 1982 in New York City, deals with issues of growth and transition to which young adults of any time period can relate. The storyline follows three wayward youths who are just beginning the difficult transition from childhood into adult life.

The play features some characters that choose to continue their education and others who flounder in indecision. The result is a dynamic story that addresses many aspects of an extremely difficult but fun learning period in the life of young adults.

It explores the struggles many young adults go through while growing up, with the characters’ problems ranging from dealing with difficult backgrounds to developing romantic, platonic or familial relationships. It also shows how these factors work to affect the characters on a deeper level as they grow and learn.

“Some elements that make this production particularly unique are the specificity of location, as well as who the characters are and how they develop,” Stern said. Stern also mentioned that this show has never been performed on the Xavier stage before. For Stern, this production was particularly enjoyable to direct.

“I went to high school in the upper east side of New York City in the late 60’s, so directing this was like going back to that time of growth in many ways,” Stern said. The play, written by Kenneth Lonergan, will have performances from Dec. 3-6. in the Xavier University Gallagher Theatre.

Tickets are available for purchase on the Xavier Theatre website or at the door on the night of the performance.