BY KAREN BOSSICK

The Sun Valley Center for the Arts and Company of Fools have decided to move ahead with “Life Sucks,” the opening play of the Fools’ 22^nd season.

But opening night has been delayed until July 6 in light of the recent tragic death of Company of Fools Co-Founder and Artistic Director John Glenn.

Cast and crew decided that moving forwards with the play was exactly what was needed to honor the vision and life of Glenn, who died of complications from an allergic reaction following back surgery. Those involved with the play decided the production will also provide an opportunity for community, Company of Fools and The Center to come together and mourn and celebrate.

The play will now run July 6 through 19 at The Liberty Theatre in Hailey.

Glenn had been set to direct the play. Ilana Becker, who came on as associate artistic director last winter, has accepted the role as co-director.

She will share the title with Glenn in recognition of his involvement and inspired vision with the play.

“As artistic director of Company of Fools, John Glenn selected the 22nd season along with Ilana Becker.  He was keen on ‘Life Sucks’ as part of a group of plays that focus on our connection to community,” said Kristin Poole, artistic director of Sun Valley Center for the Arts.

“John’s unexpected death in early June was a significant loss for the Wood River Valley, The Center and the family that is Company of Fools. We are grateful to Ilana for agreeing to step up to direct the play with John’s vision,” she added.

“Life Sucks” written by award-winning Playwright Aaron Posner, is a playful reworking of Chekhov’s “Uncle Vanya.” It revolves around a group of friends, ex-lovers and estranged family members who gather over a weekend to grapple with life’s thorniest questions--and each other.

In short, it’s a celebratory play about the foibles of humanity.

The cast includes Andrew Alburger, Jana Arnold, Chris Carwithen, Cleo Gray, Neysa Lozano, Joel Vilinsky and founding company member Denise Simone.

For tickets, go to www.sunvalleycenter.org or call 208-578-9122.