OnStage Playhouse, the South Bay’s Only Live Theater, Staging Special Fundraising Production

Chula Vista’s OnStage Playhouse Friday announced a special fundraising run of the play “Lonely Planet” by Steven Dietz from June 23 to July 16.

The theater, the only live theater in the South Bay, has recently struggled to keep its doors open. Last month, the playhouse took a brief pause in operations to consider fundraising tactics.

The Raise4Plays Giving Campaign aims to raise at least $150,000 in donations to cover future operating and production costs, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

The entire run of “Lonely Planet” will be donation-based, allowing patrons to secure their seats online for any amount they wish to contribute — with a minimum of $10 due to ticketing site fees. Pay-what-you-can seats will be available at the door for each performance, operating on a first-come, first-served basis until the venue reaches full capacity, according to theater operators.

“Lonely Planet,” set during the height of the AIDS crisis, “follows the story of Jody, a devoted map store owner who finds solace within the confines of his shop, disconnected from the outside world,” a statement from OSP reads. “As a haunting reminder of mortality, Jody’s friend Carl brings in chairs from departed friends, adding a poignant layer to their friendship. This gripping play will leave audiences with a profound realization: they possess the strength to overcome their greatest fears.”

“Mr. Dietz has crafted a tremendous conversation piece with his 1993’s ‘Lonely Planet,'” said Artistic Director James P. Darvas. “He skillfully guides us through the complexities of love, loss, hope, fear and ultimately acceptance of the unknown. Each and every page of this production offers theatre worth talking about.”

OSP welcomes back Teri Brown, former artistic director, as the director for “Lonely Planet.” Darvas will also return to the stage, portraying the character of Jody. Salomon Maya will accompany him in the role of Carl.

The theater company was founded in 1983 and has been located on Third Avenue in Chula Vista for 20 years.

City News Service contributed to this article.