Andy Warhol’s Tomato

We are pleased to partner with Pittsburgh International Classic Theatre (PICT) to present a one-evening special preview of the play, Andy Warhol’s Tomato, in the museum‘s intimate theater, before it begins its run at Carnegie Stage from September 20–October 6.

It’s 1946 in Pittsburgh. A rebellious art student at Carnegie Tech, eighteen year old Andrew Warhola (later known as Andy Warhol), finds himself unexpectedly in the basement of a working class bar owned by Mario “Bones” Bonino, a second generation Italian American from McKeesport. Over the course of the summer, Andy and Bones form an unlikely friendship that surprises them both. 

Enjoying critically acclaimed productions in Los Angeles and Chicago, this tender and beautiful play examines the war between the urban-LGBTQ+ lifestyle and Pittsburgh’s blue collar sensibilities, reminding us that division can be bridged by our fundamental need to create. As Bones says in the play: “There is beauty in the mundane”. Written by Vince Melocchi. Directed by Elizabeth Elias Huffman. Featuring Johnny Patalano as Mario Bonino and Matt Henderson as Andy Warhol.

Vince Melocchi, playwright, was born and raised in McKeesport. He currently writes and acts in theatre, film and TV in Los Angeles. Other full-length plays include: Lions, Julia, Nice Things, The Pact, Buried in the Night, Welcome to Santa. One act plays include: Think of me, Bully, Cow, Last Snow, Making Moves, A Night of Lions, The Last Linen Day.

Elizabeth Elias Huffman, director, is the new artistic director of PICT Classic Theatre. She has been an artistic director for five companies in New York, Los Angeles, and Portland and has directed, taught, and acted in theatre internationally and regionally around the country. She works in film, television, and theater.

Matt Henderson (Andy Warhol), returns to PICT after appearing in their productions of The Old Curiosity Shop, Romeo & Juliet, and The Lion in Winter. His most recent roles were in Angels in America with Elsewhere Theatre Company and in Witness for The Prosecution at Prime Stage. He has appeared in many theatre productions in Pittsburgh as well as film and TV.

Johnny Patalano (Mario Bonino) made his Pittsburgh theater debut more than twenty years ago as Tony in Tony ‘N Tina’s Wedding in Station Square. He has worked with many companies in Pittsburgh and is excited to be making his PICT debut with Andy Warhol’s Tomato.

For more info on the Carnegie performances please visit: picttheatre.org

• Doors open at 7 p.m.

Co-presented with Pittsburgh International Classic Theatre (PICT)