Florida Repertory Theatre is pleased to announce an extension by popular demand of its current production, the hilarious Shirley Valentine.

The limited run was originally slated to close on June 7, but based on both audience reaction and critical response, Florida Rep will hold Shirley over for three command performances at 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 11, Friday, June 12 and Saturday, June 13.

“The audience response over the opening weekend was overwhelming,” said Producing Artistic Director, Robert Cacioppo, “and we want to make sure that as many people have the opportunity to see it as possible. Shirley’s story is hysterically funny, moving, poignant and has a universality that appeals to each audience member in a personal way,” Cacioppo said. “See this play.”

The one-woman-play stars Lisa Morgan, now a Florida Rep regular known for her steely portrayal of a Catholic school nun in Doubt; 2008, and most recently in January’s acclaimed Dancing at Lughnasa. Shirley opened on Friday to rave reviews, and the critics agree that the play, and Morgan, are a hit.

Shirley Valentine tells the story of an ordinary middle-aged Liverpool housewife who converses more with the wall than her husband while preparing breakfast. But lucky her, a friend has won a trip for two to Greece – and when Shirley decides to go, she has no idea it’ll truly be the trip of a lifetime. The play has been called a coming of age comedy for all ages.

Shirley Valentine by Willy Russell plays at Florida Rep this week Tuesday through Saturday at 8 p.m., with 2 p.m. matinees on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.

Shirley Valentine’s three added 8 p.m. performances run Thursday, June 11 through the new closing date on Saturday June 13. Call the box office or visit Florida Rep online at www.floridarep.org for tickets and more information.

Florida Repertory Theatre is located on Bay Street between Jackson and Hendry in the Historic Arcade Theatre in the Fort Myers River District. Single tickets ($20, $35, $39) are available through the Box Office at 239-332-4488. Or visit Florida Rep online at www.floridarep.org.