'Port Authority' in Pleasantville

It wasn't just the 80-degree temperature in the airless auditorium that had women fanning themselves with their programs. John Gallagher Jr. (Tony Award "Spring Awakening") and Brian d'Arcy James (Tony-nominated, "Cashmere Mafia") turned up the heat with their performances in an open rehearsal of Conor McPherson's "Port Authority" for the Atlantic Theater Company at the Rosenthal JCC in Pleasantville on April 12.

McPherson, author of "The Seafarer," tells the story of three ordinary Dubliners through interconnected monologues. Gallagher plays Kevin, a young man desperate to begin his life and move out of the comfort of his parents' home. James plays Dermot, a middle-aged, alcoholic loser who lands a fabulous job through a case of mistaken identity. Jim Norton, who originated the role of Joe in Dublin, did not take part in this rehearsal. He plays a widower making the best of his life in a retirement home. Director Henry Wishcamper said the playwright's description is "three men summoned by God to tell the truth." McPherson's keen observations strike at the heart of each generation's hopes and dreams. The playwright tells his story of failure, loss and love with humor and compassion.

Gallagher and James both have a good grasp on their characters and manage convincing Dublin accents. Gallagher said he practiced for his audition by listening to an interview with "Once" actor Glen Hansard on YouTube over and over. The actors have been working with a dialect coach. Their performances had me engrossed, and I left wanting to see the final product. "Port Authority" opens April 30 in Chelsea at the Linda Gross Theater, 336 W. 20th St., http://www.atlantictheater.org/. Call 212-279-4200 for tickets.

Although this is the last production for this season, don't miss Anna Becker's next Insights and Revelations Series at the Rosenthal JCC (http://www.thedeependproductions.org/). Champagne and raspberry sorbet and a chance to meet the actors are a refreshing post-performance treat.