The Hesston College Theatre Department will present its first production of the academic year, “The Boys Next Door,” at 7 p.m. Nov. 11, 12, 18 and 19 and at 3 p.m. Nov. 20 in the Northlawn Studio Theatre on the Hesston College campus.

“The Boys Next Door,” by Tom Griffin, tells the story of four developmentally disabled men who live together in a group home in a New England city and their “burned out” social worker, Jack.

“The play is not a narrative story, but a montage of scenes from the men’s lives,” said second year director Laura Kraybill. “It gives the audience a glimpse into a culture that many people are not familiar with and shows how family and society can have a profound impact on people.”

Kraybill notes that the cast of students does an excellent job portraying each character’s personality. Lead actors include freshmen Cameron Ponce (Elkhart, Ind.), David Rudy (Manheim, Pa.), Simeon Taylor (Girard, Kan.), Nathan Bray (Galva, Kan.), and sophomore Robert Howell (Newton, Kan.).

“I like to do plays that get people thinking and encourage them to be more emotionally generous,” said Kraybill. ‘“The Boys Next Door’ does that through its humor and vulnerability. I hope it helps people rethink the way in which they judge others and what is ‘normal.’”

Running time is about two hours including intermission. Parental guidance is suggested due to language and some difficult content.

Ticket prices are $8 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens (65+). Tickets can be purchased through the Hesston College Bookstore in person, by phone at 620-327-8105 or online at books.hesston.edu. Tickets will also be available at the door 30 minutes before each show and are subject to availability.