Arts & Entertainment Compass

Kaitlyn E. Clark 

John Debenedatto brings George Bernard Shaw’s “Overruled” back to the American Theatre of Actors

The American Theatre of Actors is once again offering audiences a fresh perspective on a classic play, this time with George Bernard Shaw’s witty and thought-provoking comedy Overruled. From October 9 to 13, ATA will be presenting this one act comedy under the direction of the talented John Debenedetto. 

Debenedetto is no stranger to ATA audiences! This July, he directed Ibsen’s When We Dead Awaken, which played to sold-out houses as ATA’s summer season opener! With over two decades of dedicated work as a stage director, John knows how to make a story his own and ignite the minds of his audience. 

“I’ve done several memorable productions at ATA,” he reflects, adding that his return to this venue feels like coming home. For theater enthusiasts, seeing his name attached to Overruled promises another enjoyable evening at a lovely venue. 

Overruled is a one-act comedy that explores the concept of open marriage, which we might think of as seeming particularly modern, although Shaw wrote his show over a century ago. The story follows two married couples, the Lunns and the Juno-Dorians, who find themselves in what some would call a romantic entanglement. 

While Mrs. Lunn and Mr. Juno begin to find themselves attracted to each other, their respective spouses are also tempted to stray. As a result, the audience is privy to a series of candid conversations and misunderstandings about desire, jealousy, and the boundaries of marriage. 

Shaw presented this story with wit and humor, treating the concept of open relationships not as scandalous but as a natural exploration of human nature and monogamy. Director John Debenedetto is keenly aware of Shaw’s forward-thinking approach. “Shaw was ahead of his time in many areas,” he notes. “He treats the theme of open marriage in a positive, albeit comic, way. He advocates that open marriages can be an antidote to marriages that may be stale.” 

Debenedetto’s production will feature a fun modern twist, resetting the story into a more relatable, contemporary place. “Our production is making it more contemporary to make it relevant to today’s audiences,” he shares, promising an intriguing retelling that is sure to speak to today’s audiences. 

The cast of Overruled is another highlight, John even refused to single out just one standout performer. “I can’t specify one performer who is dazzling. I’m blessed with an amazing cast, and they’re all dazzling,” he says. 

Audiences can expect a dynamic group of actors who strive to engage the audience and bring their roles to life. With Debenedetto’s guidance, the cast is sure to deliver a performance that captures both the humor and heart of Shaw’s work. 

This show hilariously confronts the absurdity of their situation, and there should be plenty of laughs throughout the evening. Debenedetto highlights the funniest moment of the show as one where one of the husbands, despite having “never used his fists,” challenges the other husband to fight for the honor of their wives. 

But beneath the laughter lies an important message. Debenedetto hopes that audiences will walk away contemplating the nature of relationships and the ways in which societal norms often overlook the true complexities of human connection. 

“The underlying message of the play is that there is no such thing as a ‘proper’ relationship. Each couple must navigate relationships in a way that works best for them,” he says. Shaw’s work is a reminder that love, in all its forms, is far too complex to be neatly defined by traditional labels.

The American Theatre of Actors, known for its rich history of nurturing both classic and experimental works, is the perfect home for John’s modern twist on Shaw’s show. ATA has provided a home for creatives such as Debenedetto for close to fifty years, and this show marks just one of many impressive recent productions.

For Debenedetto, the journey doesn’t end with Overruled. He is currently preparing to direct an original play for Manhattan Rep, which will be performed at Theater for the New City in December. 

Outside of his directorial pursuits, he also shares his passion for language and literature as an English professor at Mandl College of Allied Health. His diverse range of projects, both in and out of the theater, reflects his dedication to storytelling in all forms.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience George Bernard Shaw’s Overruled from October 9 to 13 at the American Theatre of Actors. Grab your tickets and join the conversation about marriage, fidelity, and the beautiful mess that is love.

Tickets can be purchased now! Click here! 

For more information, visit the ATA website! 

Show Times

Wednesday, Oct. 9th, 8pm

Thursday, Oct. 10th, 8pm

Friday, Oct. 11th, 8pm 

Saturday, Oct. 12th, 8pm

Sunday, Oct. 13th, 3pm