A lot of folks speak of friends they haven't seen in years. But when they finally get together again, they pick up as if they never have been apart. This is the case of former student Mitch and his favorite professor and counselor, Morrie. Mitch had made the usual promise to stay in touch after graduation. Instead, he became involved in his busy life, earning a graduate degree and becoming a well known sports writer. Sixteen years later, from a chance viewing of "Nightlife," Mitch learned that Morrie was dying of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. This set in motion a whole new learning experience for Mitch. His reluctant first visit with Morrie turned into a weekly Tuesday visit that Mitch looked forward to. Mitch and the audience learned Morrie's philosophies about life, about death. And about the question "Mitch are you at peace with yourself?”

In the current Sacramento Theatre Company production of the play "Tuesdays with Morrie" everything comes together to create a perfect show. Playwrights Jeffrey Hatcher and Mitch Albom play based on Albom's best selling book is realistic, full of joy and sadness without becoming trite. Aaron Wilton's performance as Mitch is believable, as he goes from being self centered and all about his busy world to learning the value of others and the importance of his love and affection for his former professor. David Silberman, who has performed with STC for more than twenty years, is a revelation as Morrie. He captures Morrie's progressive illness while remaining a bright spirit and wonderful teacher. Even the uncredited nurse who quietly cares for Morrie contributes to the story. Performing in numerous productions at STC, Matt K. Miller has shown that he is an outstanding actor. Here he shows that he is an amazing director also.

Seeing this play in STC's intimate Pollock Theater gives one the feeling of sitting in the room, silently observing Morrie and Mitch's talks. The scenic design by Jarrod Bodensteiner and Morgan McCarthy, along with the lighting design by Bodensteiner and William Myers' Sound Design, adds to this feeling. Seeing this play in a larger theater or viewing the TV movie would not provide the same impact.

Shows through February 28th.

Sacramento Theatre Company

www.sactheatre.org.