'Dogfight' at Edison Valley Playhouse

Veterans get a discount when they see “Dogfight” at Edison Valley Playhouse.

The theater is offering a discount for veterans and active service members at performances of “Dogfight.” The show opens at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays March 13-28, with one Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. March 22. Tickets cost $15 for veterans and active service members, and $20 for other adults.

Adapted from the 1991 movie starring River Phoenix and Lilli Taylor, “Dogfight” follows three young, fresh and cocky Marines, named Birdlace, Boland and Bernstein, the night before their first deployment to the Vietnam War. Looking forward to one last night of debauchery, the men set out to find the ugliest girl to bring to the dogfight, a cruel game where the men put up money for a party and a cash prize for whoever brings the ugliest girl.

The story takes a twist when Corporal Eddie Birdlace meets Rose, an awkward and idealistic waitress and asks her to be his date. Rose unwittingly rewrites the rules of the game and teaches him the power of love and compassion.

Winner of the Lucille Lortel Award for Best Musical, “Dogfight” was adapted for the stage by composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. The Edison Valley Playhouse production is directed by Barbara Gurskey, with musical direction by Rory Chalcraft. Vocal director is Stephen D. Belfatti, with choreography by Jen Hanselman.

Edison Valley Playhouse is located at 2196 Oak Tree Road, Edison. For more information, contact DogfightEVP@gmail.com.