Fall Theatre Production brings Broadway hit to Virginia Wesleyan.
By Brittanie Wyko '11
What's better than seeing a Broadway hit in New York City?
Seeing it performed right at your own college!
Beginning Thursday, Oct. 25 at 8 p.m., the Theatre Department at Virginia Wesleyan College presents Sophie Treadwell's Machinal.
The play, loosely based on the 1920s high profile murder trial of Ruth Snyder and Judd Gray, depicts a wife who conspires with her lover to kill her husband.
Set in the 1920s, the main character is Helen, a young woman who feels pressured by society, and her mother, to conform to a mechanical, orderly way of life. Forced into a loveless marriage, Helen finds true love and freedom elsewhere - in the arms of another man. Together they devise a plan to murder Helen's husband.
Freshman Lisa Francis, of Ashland, Va., plays Helen. Francis, who was active in theatre/drama all throughout her high school years, decided to continue her passion in College.
"I play a very emotional character," said Francis. "Her bouncing emotions create quite a stir, and the audience as one may think at first that she may have a few screws loose, but as the play goes on, it is easy to see why Helen's emotions are so scattered."
Sophomore Stephen Eley plays the lead male role of Mr. George H. Jones. Eley is a graduate of Granby High School in Norfolk, Va., and also participated in high school theatre productions.
"Theatre is my goal in life, and that is why I am a theatre major," said Eley.
When it comes to playing George H. Jones in Machinal, Eley is quick to say that he does not believe that he and his character share similar personality traits. Eley describes his character as "a very business-oriented man. Everything that my character does is precise and to the point," he said.
The production is directed by Dr. Travis Malone, assistant professor of theater. Machinal opens at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 25. in the Edward D. Hofheimer Theater, located in Virginia Wesleyan's Fine Arts building.
Showtimes are at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 25 through Saturday, Oct. 27 and Thursday, Nov. 1 through Saturday, Nov. 3; and a matinee will be shown at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 28.
Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students/seniors/military and free for Virginia Wesleyan students, faculty and staff members. Reservations are not required, but strongly encouraged. For reservations, please call 757.455.3381.
For more information about Machinal or theatre at Virginia Wesleyan, please call 757.455.3256.
10.24.07