When playwright Mark Leiren-Young came to see Chester Theatre Company’s American Premiere of his play, Bar Mitzvah Boy, he knew he’d be in for some surprises. It had been staged before in his native Canada, but a new production–with a different director, designers, and, of course, a new cast–can add nuances and layers to a script as it goes from page to stage. But there was one surprise Mark wasn’t prepared for: how much our Joey, actor Will LeBow, would resemble Mark’s own grandfather, Ben Wosk.

Will LeBow and Tara Franklin. Photo: Elizabeth Solaka

We’ll just let you judge for yourself, but we think the resemblance is remarkable! In case you are interested in reading a bit about the Wosk Brothers and their fascinating role in the development of Vancouver, here is an interesting article here that Mark shared with us.

Ben Wosk, Mark Leiren-Young’s Grandfather. Photo courtesy of Mark Leiren-Young

It was a pleasure to be able to have Mark with us for the opening, and is wonderful to be able to share this behind-the-scenes tale with you!