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TWO ACTORS In 'Commit' are Eleanor Handley and Terence MacSweeny.

(COURTESY OF ART HOUSE PRODUCTIONS)

Art House Productions and Mana Contemporary have joined forces to stage “Commit,” a three part play by E.J.C Calvert, from May 29 to May 31, and from June 5 to 7 at Mana Contemporary’s theater, 888 Newark Ave., Jersey City.

“Commit” is a romantic comedy which portrays three couples that are each in tumultuous relationships that seem to be frequently strained. These couples often go into comical situations that at first seem absurd and threatening to their relationships, but always work out.

Each act portrays a different couple, and all relate to the themes reflected in the play, including love, romance, loneliness, and desperation. “Commit” is not designed to be viewed by children, and is rated PG-13.

Art House Productions, founded in 2001, is a nonprofit organization that uses visual arts, video, new media, and performance art to provide a platform for artistic expression among Jersey City community members. Mana Contemporary opened in May 2011, originally focused on providing a space for visual artists to display their works.

Mana opened its theater last fall, and has since used it to host art conferences, guest lectures, and musical performances. “We can accommodate various uses,” Selena Ricks, the facility’s public relations director, said, adding that the facility is glad to be able to host the upcoming “Commit” performance from Art House Productions.

“Commit” takes three “very recognizable relationship dynamics, and throws in an absurdist element that turns everything on its head,” said director Mason Beggs. “The situations are ridiculous, but the human relationship underneath is accessible.”

“Commit” stars Evie Freeman, Eleanor Handley, Terence MacSweeny, David Riley and Kit Vogelsang.

Audio design for the staging is by Michael Flinck; lighting design by Lance A. Michel; set and prop design by Gail-Marie Boykewich, and costume design by Pat Christodulidis.

Braille and large print versions of the play's program are available. Reserve hearing aids by calling 201-915-9911 or by emailing info@arthouseproductions.org. Visit arthouseproductions.org for information.