In Neil Simon’s Brighton Beach Memoirs, we meet Eugene Jerome and his family, fighting the hard times and sometimes each other – with laughter, tears and love. It’s the latest drama to be presented by the AriZoni Award-winning Starlight Community Theater.

Brighton Beach Memoirs will be presented at Starlight’s new venue at The Outlets at Anthem, suite 315 on February 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 at 7:30 p.m., and February 8 and 15 at 2 p.m.

The play takes place in Brooklyn around the time of 1937 during the heart of the Great Depression. Fifteen-year-old Eugene lives in Brighton Beach with his family. He is witty, perceptive, obsessed with girls, and forever fantasizing his baseball-diamond triumphs as star pitcher for the New York Yankees.

As our guide through his “memoirs,” Eugene takes us through a series of powerful observations and insights that show his family meeting life’s challenges with pride, spirit and a marvelous sense of humor. But as World War II looms ever closer, Eugene sees his own innocence slipping away as the first important era of his life ends – and a new one begins.

“We have the most talented and experienced cast yet,” artistic director Barbara Surloff said of the hit Broadway show. “This gives the North Valley a chance to work with and see experienced actors in their community theatre.”

Tickets may be purchased online or by leaving a message at 623-566-7991. Tickets may also be purchased at the Anthem Community Center and at the Outlets at Anthem Customer Service Desk. Adult and student tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door, and youth (ages 12 and under) are $8 and $10.