25 Jan 2016 Harding to present ‘The Glass Menagerie’

The Harding University theatre department will perform “The Glass Menagerie” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, through Saturday, Jan. 30, in the Ulrey Performing Arts Center.

Seniors Jon Andrew, Thomas Williams and Courtney Meason and junior Penny Turpin will be featured in leading roles. Students are also involved in many other aspects of the production such as building the set, making costumes and operating lights and sound boards.

The play was written by Tennessee Williams and follows the story of Tom, whose mother pushes him to bring home a romantic interest for his sister. Ben Jones, director of the play and instructor and technical director in the University theatre department, said the play was chosen because of the impact of the story.

“The Glass Menagerie is a great literary and theatrical classic,” Jones said. “We chose this script to give both our acting students and our audience a chance to experience the power of this unique script. It is a strong story that has challenged the actors and will touch the audience.”

The stage will be set in a thrust configuration, meaning that actors on stage have audience members on three sides. Jones said this will add a new element to the performance that will enhance both actor and audience experience.

“It is an exciting opportunity for the cast to tell this powerful story in a physical setup like the thrust configuration because it allows the performers to be nearer to the audience members,” Jones said. “Having the audience surrounding the action allows for a very intimate setting and deeper audience emotional connection. It is a very realistic story that will take the audience on an emotional journey.”

Admission to the play is $10, and tickets can be purchased at hardingtickets.com. For more information, contact the department of theatre at 501.279.5315.