REP presents FIREFLIES, a romantic comedy about second chances
Photo by Sanjay Pelinski October 23, 2026
A retired teacher and a mysterious drifter discover unexpected connection in this heartwarming play.
The Resident Ensemble Players (REP), the professional theatre company in residence at the University of Delaware, presents Fireflies by Matthew Barber, Oct. 29–Nov. 15 at the Thompson Theatre in the Roselle Center for the Arts.
Based on Annette Sanford’s novel Eleanor and Abel, this warm, witty romantic comedy follows Eleanor Bannister, a retired teacher whose quiet life in a small Texas town is transformed by the arrival of Abel Brown, a mysterious drifter. As their lives intertwine, Eleanor and Abel discover the unexpected possibilities of connection, companionship and second chances.
“Fireflies reminds us that we can find the path to lasting love at any age,” says director Paul Mason Barnes.
The production marks the first REP show under Artistic Director Sarah Wansley, who sees the play as a natural fit for the company’s commitment to portraying complicated human stories with heart.
The cast features REP company members Elizabeth Heflin as Eleanor Bannister, Stephen Pelinski as Abel Brown, and Mic Matarrese as Eugene Claymire, with guest actor Cathy Burns as Grace Bodell. The creative team includes scenic designer Stefanie Hansen, costume designer Jo Fulmer, lighting designer Lonnie Alcaraz, and sound designer and composer Matthew Nielson.
Performances include evening and matinee options, along with audience enrichment events such as talk-backs, prologues and a Backstage Pass. Tickets are $20–$39, with discounts for UD students, faculty and staff, and seniors.
Explore performance dates, event details, and tickets at www.rep.udel.edu or call the Box Office at 302-831-2204.
Based on Annette Sanford’s novel Eleanor and Abel, this warm, witty romantic comedy follows Eleanor Bannister, a retired teacher whose quiet life in a small Texas town is transformed by the arrival of Abel Brown, a mysterious drifter. As their lives intertwine, Eleanor and Abel discover the unexpected possibilities of connection, companionship and second chances.
“Fireflies reminds us that we can find the path to lasting love at any age,” says director Paul Mason Barnes.
The production marks the first REP show under Artistic Director Sarah Wansley, who sees the play as a natural fit for the company’s commitment to portraying complicated human stories with heart.
The cast features REP company members Elizabeth Heflin as Eleanor Bannister, Stephen Pelinski as Abel Brown, and Mic Matarrese as Eugene Claymire, with guest actor Cathy Burns as Grace Bodell. The creative team includes scenic designer Stefanie Hansen, costume designer Jo Fulmer, lighting designer Lonnie Alcaraz, and sound designer and composer Matthew Nielson.
Performances include evening and matinee options, along with audience enrichment events such as talk-backs, prologues and a Backstage Pass. Tickets are $20–$39, with discounts for UD students, faculty and staff, and seniors.
Explore performance dates, event details, and tickets at www.rep.udel.edu or call the Box Office at 302-831-2204.
For further information, please visit: www.rep.udel.edu
Contact Us
Have a UDaily story idea?
Contact us at ocm@udel.edu
Members of the press
Contact us at mediarelations@udel.edu or visit the Media Relations website