Boston University drama professor Sidney Friedman wasn't familiar with this Herb Gardner show until Kathleen Sitzer — artistic director of New Jewish Theatre and a friend since Friedman's days at Washington University — urged him to take a look. Now he's directed the play about a relationship between a man and his father.

What was your first impression of the play? I found myself crying, struggling to keep reading. Other scenes made me laugh out loud. Herb Gardner had a very distinctive voice.

So, do you have to be Jewish? To enjoy this play? I don't think so. I think the play will trigger many personal recollections for Jews, but it also reflects the broader immigrant experience.

Do you see a difference in the St. Louis theater scene since you left in 1981? There's much more action. It's valuable to have an institution like the Rep. But it's also valuable to have the NJT, the Black Rep and others with their own points of view.