An acclaimed play that has appeared Off-Broadway, internationally, and in regional theaters is coming to the Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville this September, offering audiences an unforgettable theatrical experience while supporting an important cause.
Just Another Day explores the realities of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and aging with warmth, humor, and compassion. Rather than portraying memory loss as a hopeless condition, the play presents characters whose humanity, dignity, and humor remain intact, creating moments that make audiences laugh and cry, often within the same scene.
Actor and playwright Dan Lauria developed the play after visiting a close friend living with dementia. During those visits, his friend frequently spoke about baseball as though games from decades earlier were happening in the present. Those conversations inspired Lauria to create a story that honors the experiences of people living with memory loss while helping audiences better understand the emotional journey faced by individuals and their families.
The play’s respectful portrayal has resonated deeply with audiences. Following one regional production, an audience member thanked Lauria by saying, “Thank you for not making them stupid,” a comment that reflects the care taken to portray people with dementia as whole individuals deserving of empathy and respect.
Lauria, widely recognized for The Wonder Years, Lombardi, Sullivan & Son, and A Christmas Story, stars in the Phoenixville production alongside acclaimed actress Patty McCormack, whose distinguished career includes The Bad Seed, Frost/Nixon, and The Sopranos.
In a show of support for the production’s charitable mission, both performers have agreed to donate their performances, allowing proceeds to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association and the Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville.
The production is being presented by the Council for Retail and Sales at DeSales University with support from community sponsors. Beyond providing exceptional entertainment, organizers hope the play will encourage meaningful conversations about memory, aging, identity, caregiving, and the impact Alzheimer’s disease has on families.
By balancing humor with heartfelt storytelling, Just Another Day reminds audiences that people living with dementia continue to possess wit, personality, and dignity. The production celebrates the enduring humanity of those affected by memory loss while offering hope, understanding, and connection to everyone who attends.
Just Another Day will be presented September 25–27 at the Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville. Community members are encouraged to support the production through sponsorships, promotion, or by purchasing tickets to attend the performances.
More than a stage production, Just Another Day demonstrates the power of theater to spark important conversations, build empathy, and bring communities together in support of families affected by Alzheimer’s disease.