Play Written By Air Force Veteran Will Premiere In Parsippany

PARSIPPANY, NJ — This Veterans Day weekend, a veteran will have his play about a remote military checkpoint in Iraq showcased in Parsippany as part of a fundraiser for veterans in need.

Michael O’Hagan, an Air Force veteran, will premiere his play "Black Friday" this weekend at 3 p.m. at the Parsippany Community Center, located at 1130 Knoll Road, Boonton.

All proceeds from the world premiere stage reading of "Black Friday" on Sunday will support the Elks Club's Army of Hope, a nationwide foundation that helps veterans.

"The work of the committee, through your donations, have helped many soldiers and families from losing heat in the winter, being removed from housing and many other daily survival needs. We support job fairs to help the many veterans and soldiers get jobs as they return to civilian life or just get back on their feet," the Army of Hope foundation said.

For more information on the Elks, visit the website.

The event will take place at the Arts Center, which Lauren Moran Mills and her LoMotion Live Productions have revitalized after the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to officials, "Black Friday" is a dark and gripping play that explores stereotypes, military experiences, and emotionally charged relationships between a young, impulsive wiseass, Airman Brendan Donohue, and his senior ranking female teammate, Staff Sgt. Shannon Hoffman, at a remote military checkpoint in Iraq.

"Trapped on assignment as security forces defenders, their lives take a dramatic turn when a reluctant antagonist enters the picture, setting off a series of tragic and unexpected events. With a blend of dark humor, intense interpersonal dynamics, and a sense of high stakes, the play delves deep into the complexities of identity, prejudice, and the enduring scars of war," LoMotion Live Productions said.

The play will star local actors Douglas McLaughlin, Dave Murgittroyd, Lilli Markey, Lizzy Raine and Gianna Esposito.

According to Lauren Moran Mills, the suggested donation for all attendees is $20.

Tickets are available for purchase online or by emailing lomotionlive@gmail.com to reserve.