Frank is in a school parking lot waiting for his parents (like he always is) when he meets Marcus, who is also waiting (like he always is). What comes next is a friendship that defines both of their lives.
The world-premiere play Waiting for Next follows the boys from 12 to 40 as they grow up and apart and together again, supporting each other through school, relationships, and some of the darkest and brightest places life can take us. The play previews May 19 & 20 and opens May 21, then runs through June 19 at City Lights Theater, 529 S. Second St.,
San Jose. Details: cltc.org.

It’s rare to see a play about male friendship with such honesty and heart. There’s a bonus reason why Waiting for Next feels so genuine. Jeffrey Lo wrote it for actors Wes Gabrillo and Max Tachis, and the three have been workshopping it together for years, also all becoming friends. And director Leslie Martinson is back after helming developmental
productions of the play.

Longtime set designer Ron Gasparinetti spotted that friendly intimacy at the first rehearsal for this production. “Everyone is so invested already,” he said. “I felt like I was walking into the middle of the rehearsal process.”

Pay What You Can Night: Thursday, May 19, 8 p.m.
Preview Night: Friday, May 20, 8 p.m.
Opening Night: Saturday, May 21, 8 p.m. (No show on May 22.)
Showtimes: Thursday-Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.

The cast, director and playwright will host an audience talkback at the theater after the 2 p.m. matinee on June 12, and a Zoom talkback on City Lights’ streaming series The Next Stage at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 15.