Photo by Eric Vogel
(LEONIA, NJ) -- The Players Guild of Leonia is diving headfirst into their new season with Red Speedo, the razor-sharp, hilarious, and fast-paced play by acclaimed playwright Lucas Hnath (A Doll's House, Part 2). Performances will take place from September 12-28, 2025 at the Civil War Drill Hall Theater in Leonia, home of the Players Guild.
Set on the eve of the Olympic swimming trials, Red Speedo is an aggressive look at ambition, ethics, and the high price of victory. With intense stakes and tight dialogue, the play asks: How far will someone go to win — and what are they willing to lose along the way?
Red Speedo is directed by Chris Hietikko — NJACT Perry Award winner for his thrilling production of Deathtrap at PGL — and produced by Kim Queren and Jodi Reiss.
The cast features Nikolas Elrifi as Ray, an Olympic hopeful with everything to gain, and everything to lose. Michael Smith-Gallo as Peter, Ray’s ambitious brother, caught between loyalty and the truth. Dan Giordano as the Coach who has trained Ray to the brink of greatness. Katie Toledo as Lydia, Ray’s former girlfriend, pulled back into his orbit.
Performances take place September 12-28, 2025. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00pm, Sundays at 2:00pm. Tickets are available for purchase online. Civil War Drill Hall Theater is located at 130 Grand Avenue in Leonia, New Jersey.
“This play is like a race,” says director Chris Hietikko. “It’s lean, fast, and explosive — audiences will feel like they’re right on the starting block with the characters.”
With its high-octane pace and timely questions about winning at all costs, Red Speedo promises an unforgettable theatrical experience that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
The Red Speedo production team includes Jeff Parsons (Stage Manager), Pixie Pierce (Costumes), Ed Pierce (Design Consultant), and Eric Vogel (Photography).
Founded in 1919, the Players Guild of Leonia is one of New Jersey’s oldest community theaters. Dedicated to producing high-quality, thought-provoking, and entertaining theater, PGL continues to be a vibrant hub for the arts in the community.
