The story of Todd Lepre is that of a local boy making it big in show business thanks to hard work and determination. Lepre, a resident of Massapequa, has been writing and directing dramatic works since his days as a student at Massapequa High School.

Most recently, one of Lepre's plays, The Hat Left Behind, will be produced by Theater for the New City, a 30-year-old nonprofit organization in Manhattan.

Lepre got his start working with Massapequa High School's Arena Players and also directed the Children's Theater there. Publicist Jane Needleman said, "He hasn't stopped since, and has immersed himself in the New York theater world." She added, "The entire theater is really excited about this new endeavor."

This play is also the recipient of a 2001 Jerome Fellowship Award, a monetary grant given out to theater companies which then distribute sums of money to worthy playwrights to support their work.

Lepre graduated from NYU with a double major in theater and dramatic writing, studying additionally at the Playwright's Horizons Theater School, the American Academy of Dramatic Art, and Stonestreet School of Film and Television. Over the years, his behind-the-scenes roles have included that of director, assistant director, stage manager, and playwright.

Speaking of Lepre's rigorous work ethic, Needleman said, "He is a constant doer. He has a page quota for his plays per night. He never stops. He's always applying to competitions and applying for grants and if he's not writing, he's directing."

In reference to the style Lepre uses in The Hat Left Behind as well as his other works, Needleman observed, "There are a lot of elements in his plays from Sartre and from Strindberg." She also noted, "It's heady stuff."

Theater for the New City's production of Todd Lepre's play, The Hat Left Behind is scheduled to run from September 5 - 23. Tickets will be $15. For reservations, please call (212) 254-1109.