The University Theatre Studio Series will present Under Construction, a play that explores the controversial issues that define and deconstruct what it means to be American, March 21-23 and 26-28 at 8 p.m. in the Cellar Theatre with a matinee performance on March 24 at 2:30 p.m.
The performance contains mature content and nudity; it is not suitable for children. A talkback with the director is scheduled for March 22 after the show. Tickets are $12 for the general public and $7 for students. They may be purchased at http://www.drama.uga.edu/box-office, by phone at 706-542-4400, in person at the door, at the Performing Arts Center or the Tate Center ticket office.
Under Construction is part of American playwright and historian Charles Mee’s (re)making project, an online resource that strives to rearticulate historical narratives via performance research. Mee’s project encourages directors to freely pillage his plays as he has “pillaged the structures and contents of Euripides, Brecht and stuff out of Soap Opera Digest,” engaging in a process of making and remaking challenging works of theater.
Directed by C.A. Farris, a doctoral candidate in the theatre and film studies department, the show incorporates original poetry, a women’s barbershop quartet, experimental movement and a medley of humorous and provocative scenes that explore historical and up-to-date questions about who and what constitutes the American public.
“America, the arts and especially theater are constantly under construction; this piece investigates why and how we define ourselves the way we do,” Farris said. “It’s an inspiring work that lets many silenced and strident voices be heard.”