(UNION, NJ) -- The Theater Project, a leading incubator for rising talent and a showcase for New Jersey artists, will present "Dog Sees God" streaming live on ZOOM, March 5-7. A play by Bert V. Royal and directed by Dennis DaPrile, the production features performers from New Jersey as well as throughout the East Coast, Toronto, and California.  It is the second in the Apprentice Production series designed to provide opportunities to young actors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“During the current theater lockdown, we’re trying to provide these talented, young professionals an outlet for that talent and a great chance to gain valuable experience,” said The Theater Project Artistic Director Mark Spina. “The Theater Project plans to continue the Apprentice Production Series through the pandemic and beyond in keeping with is mission to support rising talent. It’s a win-win for everyone.  The actors perfect their craft and the public gets to see the future stars of entertainment.”

The 90-minute performance begins at 7:30pm on March 5 and 6, followed by a 2:00pm matinee on March 7. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online. Purchasers will receive a link one hour before the performance.

"Dog Sees God" is a dark comedy involving drug use, eating disorders, bullying, rebellion, and sexual identity and is designed for ages 16 and up.

“These are some of the issues facing high school, college students and young adults,” according to DaPrile. “They are universal themes many young people can relate to.”

To improve the virtual experience, "Dog Sees God" will be testing some key features of a ‘souped up’ version of ZOOM (known as OBS-Zoom) which allows the production staff to provide sound effects and virtual backgrounds for the actors who will be performing in their ‘own space’ from home.

“All the audience has to do is click on the ZOOM link they’ll receive, just like any ZOOM meeting,” said Spina. “But instead of seeing the actors in their living rooms with distracting backgrounds, the audience will see more impactful visuals. We’re thrilled to be one of the first in our area to perform using this medium.”

PHOTO: Director Dennis DaPrile