Inspired by a true case of discrimination against a gay couple at a hospital, “A DANCE for RYLIE” explores issues of intimacy, illness and equality. The work focuses on the relationship between the affable Rylie, who has just suffered a tumultuous breakup and Matthew, a hopeless romantic. Though Rylie initially fights it, they fall in love and ultimately commit their lives to one another. But as Rylie’s health declines, the hospital staff restricts Matthew to the lobby during what could be his partner’s last moments.  “A DANCE for RYLIE” is told via a pop/jazz inspired score written by Mr. Davis. The creative team hopes to advance consciousness around HIV/AIDS and equality.

With President Obama’s historic announcement yesterday, A DANCE for RYLIE could not be more current. 

“A DANCE for RYLIE” will play June 1st – June 19th at the Bleecker Street Theater, 45 Bleecker Street (between Lafayette and Mott Streets, Upstairs Theater) as part of the Theatre Festivity. Performances: Friday, June 1st, 9pm, Sunday, June 3rd, 8pm, Friday, June 8th, 4pm, Sunday, June 10th, 10pm, Wednesday, June 13th, 5pm, Tuesday, June 19th, Subway: 6 to Bleecker. B,D,F,V to Broadway/Lafayette. N,R to Prince Street. 

Stephan Davis (Book/Music/Lyrics), a St. Louis native, is an accomplished saxophonist. After studying Jazz and Performance at The New School, he decided to pursue a career in health care. During his graduate studies, Stephan learned of a case of discrimination against a gay couple at a hospital. Their story moved him to write A DANCE for RYLIE, a piece that combines his greatest passions: music, healthcare, and the pursuit of equality. A DANCE for RYLIE is the product of this inspiration. Stephan is a Registered Nurse and holds a Master of Science in Health Systems Administration from Georgetown University. 

Bob Cline (Director/Choreographer) had the pleasure of directing Elaine Stritch, Betty Buckley, Tuc Watkins & Martha Plimpton in Ben Andron's White's Lies at the Jerry Orbach Theatre in NYC and Off-Broadway at New World Stages. Bob is a proud faculty member in charge of the Senior BFA Musical Theatre majors at Pace University. Major theatre credits: Jesus Christ Superstar, Company, Rent, Titanic, Crimes of the Heart, etc. Bob is a full time NYC casting director and has helped to populate over 70 national tours, hundreds of regional theatre productions, film, TV and commercials. 

THE ALI FORNEY CENTER provides housing for homeless LGBT youth. 

THE PLANET CONNECTIONS THEATRE FESTIVITY is New York’s premiere eco-friendly theatre festival. Fostering a diverse cross-section of performances, the festival seeks to inspire artists and audiences both creatively and fundamentally, in a festive atmosphere. At the heart of the festivity are like-minded individuals striving to create professional, meaningful theatre, while supporting organizations, which give back to the community at large.