WILSON, N.C. – On Thursday, Nov. 12, the new Lauren Kennedy and Alan Campbell Theatre at Barton College will open its doors for the theatre’s inaugural student production, “Waiting for Godot” by Samuel Beckett. Evening performances will be held Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 12-14, at 8 p.m. and on Sunday afternoon, Nov. 15, at 3 p.m.
“Samuel Beckett’s complex and magnificent ‘Waiting for Godot’ is a challenging work that has been called “the greatest play of the 20th century,” and is by all accounts a modern classic,” shared Adam Twiss, director of Theatre of Barton.
Twiss explained that Beckett lived, worked, and wrote in France and Ireland during both world wars and he wrote “Godot” shortly after World War II. Twiss noted that the play reflects a level of discomfort with the development of atomic warfare and the newfound ease with which man can annihilate himself. “This play is often described as “existentialist” or “absurdist,” but the playwright never desired a label, preferring to have the material speak for itself,” added Twiss.
The audience is introduced to two characters who pass the time waiting on the side of a road for someone named “Godot.” As they wait, other characters enter their lives offering bits of pseudo-enlightenment, pseudo-information, or most importantly “diversions” from their routine.
“Over the years, the play has engendered limitless scholarly debate aimed at exposing a hidden meaning,” continued Twiss. “Overt political, biblical, and Freudian undertones are readily apparent; however, “Waiting for Godot” is more a comment on man himself than on those elements that comprise him.”
The play has been adapted to film several times and was most recently revived on Broadway this past spring with award-winning actors Nathan Lane, Bill Irwin, and John Goodman.
“This is a wonderful play to work on in our new black box theatre, where we can modify the configuration to fit our take on the production; the work is very challenging for actors and audience alike, but we are incredibly proud to present it to you,” Twiss said.
The “Waiting for Godot” company, directed by Twiss, includes student and local talent: Wesley Pridgen, Chris Wallen, Jess Jones, Fletcher Duke, and Jorge Santos. Chris Bernier, technical director of theatre, will oversee the lighting and scenic design. Costume design is by Dr. Sharon Montano, and sound design is by Matt Smith. Whitley Stanley is the stage manager, and Jensen Davis is the assistant stage manager. Poster art for the production was created by the graphic design class under the direction of Susan Fecho.
Purchase individual show tickets online at www.barton.edu/theatre, or call the box office toll-free at (866) 811- 4111. The hours of operation are 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. E.S.T. Monday – Friday and 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Please note that NO service fees are charged for either online or phone ticket purchases.
General admission is $8 for adults and $5 for students. Barton College students, faculty and staff are admitted free with proper ID. Group rates are also available for parties of six or more; contact Adam Twiss at ajtwiss@barton.edu or 252-399-6484 to make arrangements.
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Questions? Please contact Kathy Daughety, director of public relations, at 252-399-6529 or email: kdaughety@barton.edu.