WMU News

Are we alone in the Universe?

Feb. 12, 2002

KALAMAZOO -- WMU's University Theatre presents a stunning new play, Tina Landau's "Space," for seven performances through Feb. 23.

When a doctor, a man whose life is based on probable science, is faced with something he cannot disprove, he can only come to one conclusion -- the possibility that three of his patients were forcibly abducted into outer space.

Evening performances of "Space" begin at 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Feb. 14-16 and 21-23. There is also a Sunday, Feb. 17, matinee beginning at 2 p.m. All performances will be staged in Multiform Theatre of the Gilmore Theatre Complex.

Tickets are $16 for adults, $12 for senior citizens and WMU faculty and staff, and $7 for all students. For tickets call 269 387-6222. The Gilmore Theatre Ticket Office is open Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m., and two hours prior to performances.

An opening night reception on Thursday, Feb. 14, will be sponsored by TCBY. On Thursday, Feb. 21, there will be a sign-interpreted performance for the hearing impaired followed by a post- show discussion with the cast and production team.

"Space" is directed by Dr. Joan Herrington, associate professor of theatre.

Says Herrington, "This play is about a relationship with space and that relationship is funny and it's scary and it's spiritual and in a very human way, it explores some of our deepest issues -- are we alone in the universe? Are we alone in our own lives?

"Since the beginning of time, we have been fascinated with the mystery of life beyond earth and this play explores that mystery," says Herrington.

"Space" will feature performances by senior Tiffany LaVoie as Bernadette and juniors Nate Senter as Lacey, Mickey Solis as Allen and Nick Konow as Devin. The rest of the ensemble includes Lakisha Bowen, Jerek Khan, Autumn Shiley, Tara Matkosky and Martin Kettling.

The production will feature special computer animation designed by WMU staff member and 1991 theatre graduate Kevin Abbott. Other members of the design team are Professor Greg Roehrick, scenic designer; senior Michael Freese, assistant scenic designer, Professor Gwendolyn Nagle, costume designer; junior Liesl Sietz; assistant costume designer; and Jeffrey Rogers; lighting designer.

Media contact: Shauna Thieman, 269 387-6222, shauna.thieman@wmich.edu


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