“Perception is Truth” in Workhouse Theatre’s modern, edgy Oleanna
By: Dan Hylton 09/01/2007
Who do you believe when perception is truth? Workhouse Theatre Company (WTC) kicks off their 2007-2008 season this October with the hard-hitting Oleanna by David Mamet; a disturbingly real portrait of a gut-wrenching struggle between a college student and the professor she accuses of sexual misconduct.
In this two person play, audience members witness two unflinching individuals engage in an escalating battle for understanding that threatens to unravel all they take for granted. Written during the Anita Hill-Clarence Thomas scandal, WTC Artistic Director Jeff Redman says that the message has never been more relevant. “Every day there is a failure to communicate, to listen and act rationally, compassionately. This play is important, because everyone needs to take the time to stop and really examine a situation, before things get out of control.” Carolyn von Hauck, who has worked with WTC as both a performer (Inès in No Exit), and as an acting class instructor, will direct this controversial look at what happens when the lines of communication erode.
This play is an artistic departure from last season’s successful light hearted comedy, A Company of Wayward Saints. While the story of Oleanna is fictional, the situation that is presented and the actions that follow are all very real. Some audience members may actually have been in similar circumstances themselves which will add a new level of engagement with the piece. Playwright David Mamet is known for the unique style of dialogue he writes that has a rhythm and cadence all its own. Please note that Oleanna does contain mature themes and language, and may not be appropriate for younger audiences.
Oleanna will be performed over three weekends, beginning October 26. All evening shows begin at 7:30 at The Warren (44th Ave N and Osseo Rd.). In response to community feedback, WTC will be offering one 2 p.m. Sunday matinee with each production this season. Tickets for all shows will be $10 in advance and $12 at the door (seniors and students $8 in advance and $10 at the door) and will go on sale soon through our website and at the Warren.
Workhouse Theatre’s 2007-2008 season will feature three mainstage shows: fall’s Oleanna, Steve Martin’s The Underpants in mid-winter and Marsha Norman’s ‘Night Mother in late spring. Season ticket passes will be available for the first time. Each pass will be sold for $30 ($24 for seniors and students) and will make reserving your seats easier, not to mention the savings over paying for your ticket at the door. Visit www.workhousetheatre.org for info; contact WTC at info@workhousetheatre.org or 612-237-2014.