University Theatre presents Six Degrees of Separation
Nov. 8, 2002
KALAMAZOO -- University Theatre at Western Michigan University presents Olivier Award-winning play Six Degrees of Separation for seven performances, Nov. 14-23.
Six Degrees of Separation contains brief nudity and language which may be offensive to some patrons. Performances are scheduled for Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 14-16 and 21-23, at 8 p.m. and Sunday Nov. 17, at 2 p.m. in the Laura V. Shaw Theatre.
The play was written by playwright John Guare, known for other award winning plays such as "The House of Blue Leaves" and "Four Baboons Adoring the Sun." Called "transcendent; magical; a masterwork" by the New York Times upon its1990 premiere, Six Degrees examines a person's role in society and how seemingly dissimilar people are more closely connected than they might believe.
Based on a true story, Six Degrees is about a young con man, who infiltrates the apartment of a wealthy New York art dealer and his wife. He succeeds in charming his way into their life through a supposed connection to their children and to well-known actor Sidney Poitier.
An opening night reception sponsored by Bacchus Wines &
Spirits follows the Thursday, Nov.14, performance. Following
the Sunday, Nov. 17, matinee will be a Post-Show discussion with
the cast and production team. The University Theatre would like
to alert the partons to the
brief nudity and strong language in this production.
Six Degrees of Separation is directed by Dr. D. Terry Williams, chair of the Department of Theatre.
The cast features senior Christopher Barrett as Flan; juniors Larry Herron as Paul and Melissa Leininger as Ouisa. The ensemble also includes seniors Cari Burke, Rick Eva, Scott Jacobs, Martin Kettling, Tara Matkosky; juniors Michael Bowlin, Lana Hubbard, Nate Mitchell, David White; sophomores Eric Fallows, Rusty Northrup, James Warfield; and freshmen Paul Josun, Dan Malley, and Kevin O'Callaghan.
Working behind the scenes are senior Brendan Bernacki, scenic designer; senior Laura Cornish lighting designer, senior Chris Ericson, sound designer, junior Lindsay Cook, stage manager; and Gwen Nagle, professor of theatre, costume designer.
Standard admission for Six Degrees of Separation is $16, with $12 for seniors and WMU faculty/staff, and $7 for all students. Tickets may be purchased through the Gilmore Theatre Complex Ticket Office at (269) 387-6222. Office hours are Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. and two hours prior to performances. Tickets also are available through the Epic Center Box Office in downtown Kalamazoo at (269) 387-0402.
Media contact: Shauna Thieman, 269 387-6222, shauna.thieman@wmich.edu