NOT READY FOR PRIME TIME, a behind-the-scenes play about the creation of America’s iconic sketch comedy, Saturday Night Live.

Grove House Productions unveils the cast and creative team for the New York premiere of NOT READY FOR PRIME TIME, a behind-the-scenes play about the creation of America’s iconic sketch comedy, Saturday Night Live. The show begins performances October 5, 2025, with an opening night on October 20 at The Newman Mills Theater, Robert W. Wilson MCC Theater Space (511 West 52nd Street).

Arriving during a milestone anniversary for SNL, NOT READY FOR PRIME TIME is set in 1975 and follows nine soon-to-be legends—Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, Chevy Chase, Jane Curtin, Lorne Michaels, Garrett Morris, Bill Murray, Laraine Newman, and Gilda Radner—as they navigate backstage chaos, live music, and comedy that redefined television. Written by Erik J. Rodriguez & Charles A. Sothers, directed by Conor Bagley, and running through November 30, this production dives into the personalities and creative clashes that sparked a cultural revolution.

The cast features Ian Bouillon (Lorne Michaels), Ryan Crout (John Belushi), Jared Grimes (Garrett Morris), Caitlin Houlahan (Jane Curtin), Nate Janis (Bill Murray), Kristian Lugo (Dan Aykroyd), Woodrow Proctor (Chevy Chase), Taylor Richardson (Laraine Newman), Evan Rubin (Gilda Radner), plus understudies Gilbert L. Bailey II, Jacob Millman, and Jake Roberson.

Creative team: Justin Swader & Christopher Swader (Scenic Design), Sarita P. Fellows (Costume), Mextly Couzin (Lighting), Liam Bellman-Sharpe (Sound), Samantha Shoffner (Props), Fareeda Pasha (Dramaturg), James "Fitz" FitzSimmons (Stage Manager), Cyrille Blackburn and Alexandrea Hess Rodriguez (Asst. Stage Managers), and Stephen DeAngelis (Casting).

Director Conor Bagley states: “This cast channels not just the subversive humor of the originals, but also the heart and relationships behind their groundbreaking work. We illuminate the rivalries, camaraderie, and sacrifices that defined a comedy revolution.” Bagley brings extensive Off-Broadway and regional credits, including Irish Repertory Theatre and Broadway’s The Inheritance.

Playwright Erik J. Rodriguez’s credits include One Night In Miami and South Florida’s National New Play Network Showcase. Co-writer Charles A. Sothers, artistic director of the Roxy Theatre Group, brings experience from Miami’s stage scene and a passion for honoring the outsiders who reshaped comedy.

Performances:

Mondays at 7PM

Wednesdays at 7:30PM

Thursdays at 2:30PM & 7:30PM

Fridays at 7:30PM

Saturdays at 2:30PM & 7:30PM

Sundays at 2PM

Tickets and details at www.NotReadyForPrimeTimePlay.com.

NOT READY FOR PRIME TIME is independently produced and not affiliated with MCC Theater or SNL.

For more on MCC Theater’s mission and programs, visit mcctheater.org.