Published on June 16, 2026 | 
| Written by Carol Ann Benanti
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Sundog Theatre is set to open “The Good Doctor,” the Tony Award-nominated comedy inspired by the short stories of renowned Russian author Anton Chekhov.
The production, described by the New York Times as a “totally enjoyable evening,” will premiere Friday, June 19, at Wagner College’s Stage One.
From the comedic mind of Neil Simon, “The Good Doctor” weaves together a series of funny and heartfelt vignettes that explore the oddities, dreams, follies, and frailties of everyday people. The stories are fast-moving with multiple characters, plots and comic styles. Guiding audiences through each tale is The Writer, a narrator who offers his own observations on the human condition.
Filled with colorful characters, unexpected situations, and Neil Simon’s trademark humor, “The Good Doctor” blends laugh-out-loud comedy with warmth and insight. With everything from awkward romances and mistaken intentions to quirky characters, the play celebrates the imperfections that make us all human
“The show is a much-needed humor boost at a time when uplifting entertainment feels especially valuable,” says Sundog Theatre’s Executive Director Susan Fenley. “From our very first read-through, the cast had us laughing out loud. Audiences can expect an evening filled with humor and heart. One of the great gifts of theater is its ability to help us escape everyday challenges and connect through laughter.”
“The Good Doctor” is directed by Meredith Sladek.
The cast includes: James Cunningham, Parnassus Funk, Matt Gilleece, Connor Gutierrez, Asa Leininger, Mimi McMann, Bobbie Oliver, Dave Polgar, Shea Ryan, and Anadina Saladino.
The stage manager is Ash Mojica, the costumer is Nora Shvartsberg, and the lighting designer is Pamela Pangaro. The show is produced by Susan Fenley, with assistant producer Melissa Holland.
“The Good Doctor” is a thoroughly delightful show that will keep you laughing from start to finish,” said Broadway World.
“The show is full of charm and goodwill and makes for a totally enjoyable evening,” The New York Times added.
Dates, Times and Tickets
Wagner College’s Stage One is located at 636 Howard Ave. on the Grymes Hill Campus.
Performance dates are Friday, June 19; Saturday, June 20; Sunday, June 21; Friday, June 26; Saturday, June 27; and Sunday, June 28.
Friday and Saturday showtimes are at 8 p.m., and the Sunday show is at 3 p.m.
A Little About Sundog Theatre
Sundog Theatre, a performing arts organization formed in 2002, provides contemporary and original theater for adults and children, educational touring shows to the Tri-State area, acting classes for young people, and programs that bring teaching artists into schools to support curricula through the arts.
